Five men were arrested on suspicion of preparing a terrorist act near RAF Fairford on Sunday, September 27. The British air base supports US Air Force strategic bomber deployments and U-2 reconnaissance operations.
Police received a call at around 12:45 a.m. local time about three suspicious vehicles apparently travelling towards the base in Gloucestershire. Armed officers responded and detained the men in nearby Whelford.
The suspects were initially arrested over suspected explosives offences and subsequently detained on suspicion of preparing a terrorist act. Counter Terrorism Policing confirmed it had taken charge of the investigation.
Army bomb disposal specialists examined the vehicles, with a 400-metre cordon established around them. Residents of approximately 85 homes were evacuated as a precaution, and a nearby leisure centre was opened for those unable to stay with relatives or friends.
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Vicki Evans, the senior national coordinator for Counter Terrorism Policing, said the investigation remained at an early stage and all five men were in custody. Authorities asked the public to avoid speculation while evidence was gathered.
No explosion, casualties or damage to aircraft had been confirmed in the official statements reviewed for this report.
Strategic bombers and reconnaissance aircraft
Fairford serves as a deployment location for US strategic bombers, including the B-1B Lancer and B-52 Stratofortress. The base has also hosted B-2 Spirit stealth bombers.
Its role extends beyond bomber operations. U-2 Dragon Lady reconnaissance aircraft operate from Fairford with the 99th Expeditionary Reconnaissance Squadron, while transport aircraft such as the C-17 Globemaster III use the installation for logistical support.
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September 27, 2026
September 27, 2026
US bombers have flown missions against Iran from Fairford during the conflict. The base’s operational importance provides context for the security response, although investigators have not publicly established who was behind the suspected plot.
A US Air Force spokesperson said the 501st Combat Support Wing and other US units in Britain remained vigilant, but declined to discuss specific protection measures.
Possible foreign involvement under investigation
ITV News reported that investigators were examining whether representatives of the Iranian regime had paid others to carry out the suspected plot. That possibility has not been confirmed by police, and no nationality or identity had been officially disclosed for the five detainees.
President Donald Trump praised the arrests and said the suspects had been monitored for some time. The police statement confirmed that an emergency call preceded the arrests but did not corroborate his claim of prior surveillance.
Security measures also affected other US-operated installations in Britain. RAF Lakenheath confirmed to the Press Association that it was at Force Protection Condition Charlie, according to ITV News. Reports that Fairford had moved to the higher Delta level remained publicly unconfirmed.
