Ministry of Defence File D/Sec(AS)12/2: Unidentified Flying Objects (UFOs) - Reports

This document is a compilation of various reports of Unidentified Flying Objects (UFOs) and aerial phenomena received by the British Ministry of Defence during the year 1988. The file, referenced as D/Sec(AS)12/2, contains numerous individual 'Report of an Unidentified Flying Object' forms, as well as telex messages and correspondence between various Royal Air Force (RAF) stations, police forces, and the Ministry of Defence. The reports cover a wide range of sightings across the United Kingdom, including locations such as Sheffield, Hull, Reading, and various airfields. Witnesses include members of the public, police officers, and military personnel. Descriptions of the objects vary significantly, ranging from bright lights, star-shaped objects, and cigar-shaped craft to objects described as having 'flames' or 'trails'. Many reports note the speed, movement, and color of the objects, with some witnesses describing them as moving erratically or at high speeds. The document reflects the standard procedure for handling such reports, which involved collecting details from witnesses, often via local police, and forwarding them to the Ministry of Defence for review. The file includes various stamps and annotations indicating the administrative processing of these reports, including dates of receipt and distribution to relevant departments such as Sec(AS)2, AEW/GE, and DI 55. The document serves as a historical record of the volume and nature of UFO reports received by the UK government during this period.