The United States has removed all B-1 bombers from RAF Fairford in the United Kingdom following a suspected terror plot at the air base, a Pentagon spokesperson confirmed on Sunday. The dozen B-1B Lancer bombers stationed at the facility have been redeployed to their home stations in the United States, marking a significant shift in military operations amid heightened security concerns. No military equipment or personnel were harmed during the incident, officials stated.
Arrests and Security Incident
Five British men in their 20s, all from London, were arrested on September 27 on suspicion of preparing a terrorist attack near the air base. Police later released them on bail after finding gasoline in three vans linked to the suspects but no explosives. A dual British-Iranian national was also arrested in central London last week on similar charges, though both individuals have since been released pending further investigation. Authorities described the plot as foiled after one of the suspects contacted police, prompting an armed response.
Officials Link Incident to Iran
British Prime Minister Andy Burnham stated on September 30 that the UK had “strong indications” that Iran was involved in the suspected plot targeting RAF Fairford. Burnham cited intelligence suggesting Tehran’s involvement, though he did not provide further details. The UK government had previously permitted the US to use the base for bomber strikes against Iranian missile sites attacking ships in the Strait of Hormuz.
Iran Denies Allegations
Iran’s foreign ministry dismissed the accusations as “baseless” and summoned the British ambassador in Tehran to protest the claims. Iranian officials have previously stated that any base used to attack their territory is a legitimate target, though they did not directly address the specific allegations in this case.
Military and Political Reactions
US President Donald Trump described the plot as one intended to cause “big damage”, while Secretary of State Marco Rubio suggested a foreign actor was behind the suspected attack. Pentagon officials emphasized that the bombers’ redeployment was a routine operational decision, stating that US Air Force bombers routinely operate globally to support force readiness. Aviation watchers observed multiple B-1 bombers departing RAF Fairford on Sunday, confirming the redeployment.
Local Impact and Resident Concerns
Residents near RAF Fairford reported heightened security measures, including armed guards warning civilians to leave the area hours before the arrests. Some locals expressed frustration over a lack of communication from base authorities and UK officials regarding the evolving security situation. The air base has been a key hub for US bomber operations since the start of the Iran conflict, with B-52 and B-1 bombers frequently stationed there.
Ongoing Investigation
The investigation into the suspected plot remains active, with authorities continuing to assess potential links to foreign actors. No improvised explosive devices were recovered during the operation, and the suspects have been released on bail pending further inquiries. The Pentagon confirmed that all US bombers have now been redeployed, though it did not specify whether future operations at RAF Fairford would resume.