Breaking News: The US Air Force has relocated 13 military aircraft from RAF Mildenhall in England due to a perceived threat originating in Iran.
The US Air Force has swiftly moved more than a dozen aircraft from RAF Mildenhall in eastern England, responding to a newly assessed security threat. The relocation, confirmed by US officials, comes as concerns mount over Iranian aggression, with the threat initially reported by The Wall Street Journal. Commanders raised the base’s security level to Force Protection Condition Charlie, indicating a heightened risk of terrorist activity.
The evacuated aircraft included nine Boeing KC-135 Stratotankers, vital for aerial refuelling, dispersed to airfields in Scotland, Germany and Spain. Three CV-22B Ospreys were moved to nearby RAF Lakenheath, benefitting from hardened aircraft shelters. According to flight-tracking data analysed by the Military Air Tracking Alliance, the aircraft departed late Monday. A US official characterised the moves as “precautionary,” noting that some aircraft were on rotation, while others were permanently stationed in the UK.
This evacuation follows a similar incident in October, whereby heavy bombers were withdrawn from RAF Fairford following the arrest of individuals linked to potential terror plots. The Justice Department has since indicted three individuals allegedly backed by Iran for involvement in coordinated terrorist plots across Europe, including targeting RAF Fairford. Secretary of State Marco Rubio acknowledged that the US routinely repositions forces “for a variety of reasons”.
The situation highlights ongoing tensions with Iran, with the US having previously warned of increased Iranian efforts to target Americans abroad. A Downing Street spokesperson affirmed that UK air bases remain secure and intelligence is being shared with Washington.
The US will continue to monitor the situation and adjust its security posture as necessary.
Sources: Fox News, The Wall Street Journal, The Associated Press.
