The United States has decided to withdraw its B-1 bombers from the Royal Air Force (RAF) base Fairford in the United Kingdom, citing security concerns related to a potential attack. Reports indicate that the redeployment of the bombers back to the US began on Sunday. Prior to this decision, approximately a dozen B-1 bombers were stationed at RAF Fairford.
A Pentagon spokesperson confirmed to Reuters that all US bombers deployed to RAF Fairford have returned to their home stations in the United States, although operational security prevented them from confirming the movement in real-time.
The withdrawal follows several arrests made by UK authorities near the base, including five men on September 27, who were suspected of plotting to plant explosives. These individuals were released without charge the following day after investigators found petrol but no explosive devices in their vehicles. UK officials have stated that the investigation is ongoing.
Additionally, a 25-year-old UK-Iranian dual national was arrested in London on suspicion of plotting an attack against the airbase. UK Prime Minister Andy Burnham suggested that Iran may have been involved in the alleged plot, but did not provide further details. Vicki Evans, Senior National Coordinator for Counter Terrorism Policing, described the investigation as complex, exploring multiple lines of inquiry, including potential foreign state involvement.
US President Donald Trump commented on the arrests, stating that the suspects aimed to cause significant damage to US facilities and commended UK authorities for their actions. Iran has denied any involvement in the alleged plot and summoned the UK ambassador to express its protest over the arrests.
RAF Fairford has historically been used by the US military during conflicts in the Middle East, including the Gulf War in the 1990s. The base has also been a site of antiwar protests, notably in 2003 when activists attempted to damage military equipment intended for the Iraq invasion. Despite initial hesitance, the UK government granted the US access to its bases for defensive purposes in March amid the ongoing conflict involving Iran.