Ministry of Defence File: Unidentified Flying Objects (UFOs) Reports, Part B (1986)

This document is a collection of reports and correspondence regarding Unidentified Aerial Phenomena (UAP) compiled by the Ministry of Defence (MOD) in the United Kingdom, specifically within the file reference D/Sec (AS)/12/2, Part B. The file spans the period from late 1985 through 1986. It contains numerous individual sighting reports submitted by members of the public, police officers, and air traffic control personnel. These reports describe a wide variety of aerial phenomena, including bright lights, spherical or cigar-shaped objects, and unusual movements such as rapid acceleration, hovering, or erratic flight paths. Many reports were initially directed to local police stations or airport control towers before being forwarded to the MOD for assessment. The documentation includes standard 'Report of an Unidentified Flying Object' forms, internal MOD memos, and telex communications between various RAF stations and the London Air Traffic Control Centre. Several reports mention the involvement of police officers, some of whom were off-duty or acting in a personal capacity, while others were reporting on behalf of members of the public. The file also contains press clippings, such as a Sunday Mirror article from March 1986 discussing a sighting involving Prince Charles. The reports are characterized by diverse descriptions, ranging from 'bright white lights' and 'red/orange balls' to more complex descriptions of objects with multiple colored lights. Meteorological conditions are frequently noted, with many sightings occurring on clear nights. The file reflects the administrative process of the MOD in handling these reports, with many documents stamped as 'RESTRICTED/UNCLASSIFIED' and processed through the Aeronautical Information Section (Military). The file concludes with various administrative notes regarding the disposal and review of the records, indicating that the file was closed and subject to review in 1999 and 2011.