Photo: US Army
In a daring raid, masked thieves stole four drones from a California Army base, using getaway cars to escape. The theft occurred amid heightened fears of potential drone attacks by Iran on the West Coast. The FBI recently issued an advisory warning of possible Iran-backed drone strikes if the U.S. attacks the Islamic Republic.
The advisory suggested that Iran might use unmanned aerial vehicles launched from a vessel off the U.S. coastline. Although there are no specific details on timing or targets, California authorities are on high alert. Governor Gavin Newsom's office stated that the state is actively monitoring potential threats and coordinating with federal and local partners.
The FBI's warning comes as the U.S. increases military action against Iran, and Iran continues its retaliatory drone strikes in the Middle East. The advisory also hinted at the activation of sleeper cells outside Iran's borders.
Despite the lack of specific threat details, California law enforcement agencies are reviewing their security measures and urging the public to report any suspicious activities. The last direct attack on California's coast was in 1942, when a Japanese submarine shelled the Ellwood Oil Field in Goleta.
The theft of the drones raises concerns about their potential use in attacks. Authorities are investigating the incident and working to recover the stolen drones.