A major incident has been declared at the RAF Fairford airbase in Gloucestershire, leading to the arrest of several men on suspicion of offences under the Explosives Act. The security situation prompted authorities to evacuate homes in the nearby Whelford area, with residents being relocated to a local leisure centre.
As part of the ongoing security response, the army has been deployed to inspect a number of vehicles at the site. Armed police were observed blocking access to the main gate of the base, while emergency vehicles, including police cars, fire engines, and ambulances, were visible in the village of Fairford on Sunday morning. Gloucestershire police confirmed they are working with partners to enact established security plans, adding that the situation is contained and the public should not be alarmed.
The Gloucestershire base, which is utilized by US forces, has been the site of recent protests regarding the British government’s decision to permit the US to conduct strikes against Iranian missile sites in the Strait of Hormuz. In July, Iran’s Revolutionary Guards issued a warning to the UK against allowing US bombers to operate from the facility. At that time, a British government spokesperson stated: “Our armed forces are ready to keep the United Kingdom safe from any kind of attacks, whether it’s on our soil or from abroad. The UK stands ready 24/7 to defend itself.”
A spokesperson for the US Air Force declined to discuss specific force protection measures. However, they noted that the 501st Combat Support Wing and other UK-based wings remain vigilant. The spokesperson added that they are taking appropriate actions to ensure the safety of US service members, contractors, civilians, and their families, while constantly assessing various factors to modify protection measures for their installations.
