Major Incident Declared at RAF Fairford; Men Arrested Under Explosives Act
Nearby residents evacuated and Army bomb squad deployed at US air base.
A major incident has been declared at RAF Fairford, a US air base in Gloucestershire, following the arrest of several men on suspicion of offenses under the Explosives Act. Nearby homes have been evacuated, and the British Army's explosive ordnance disposal team is examining vehicles on the site.
Gloucestershire Police confirmed that properties in the Whelford area were being evacuated to a local leisure center as a precaution. The force stated that a cordon is in place but assured the public that the incident is believed to be contained and that they are working with partners to enact established emergency plans.
It is understood that other US bases have been placed on Delta alert, the highest threat level issued by the US Department of Defense. Armed police have been present near the base in recent days, with emergency vehicles stationed in the vicinity.
RAF Fairford serves as the headquarters for the US Air Force's 501st Combat Support Wing, described as the preferred bomber forward operating location in Europe for USAF Global Strike Command. The base was previously the subject of a warning from Iran's Revolutionary Guard in July, cautioning the UK against allowing US bombers to fly from the site, although there is no suggestion that the current incident is linked to Iran.
A US Air Force spokesperson stated that the 501st Combat Support Wing and other UK-based wings remain vigilant and will implement appropriate measures to ensure the safety and security of US service members, civilians, contractors, and their families, continuously assessing factors that determine protective actions for installations and personnel.