FAIRFORD: The United States has withdrawn all of its B-52 and B-1 bombers from RAF Fairford in Britain and returned them to their home bases in the US as British authorities investigate a suspected terrorist plot targeting the military installation.
RAF Fairford, in Gloucestershire, had been used by US bombers involved in military operations against Iran, making the withdrawal significant as Washington continues to assess its next steps in the conflict.
A Pentagon official, speaking on condition of anonymity because of restrictions on discussing sensitive military movements, confirmed that the aircraft had been redeployed from Fairford to their respective bases in the United States.
Aviation monitors had tracked B-52 and B-1 bombers operating from RAF Fairford during the Iran conflict, while several B-1 aircraft were seen leaving the British base over the weekend.
The redeployment comes as British counter-terrorism police continue investigating suspicious activity near RAF Fairford following a security incident in late September.
British authorities have arrested a dual UK-Iranian national on suspicion of preparing terrorist acts in connection with the investigation. Five other men were earlier arrested over the incident and subsequently released on bail.
Counter Terrorism Policing has said investigators are examining several possible lines of inquiry, including whether a foreign state may have been involved. Iran has denied involvement in the suspected plot.
The developments have drawn particular attention because RAF Fairford has served as an important operating base for US long-range bombers conducting missions connected to the Middle East.
Despite removing the bombers from the British base, Washington continues to maintain a substantial military presence in the Middle East.
US military planners have been preparing for a possible expansion of naval forces in the region, including additional aircraft carrier and amphibious groups, as tensions with Iran remain high.
President Donald Trump has also kept open the possibility of further military action against Iran as his administration weighs its next steps. Recent US statements have indicated that Washington has not ruled out renewed strikes.
RAF Fairford, located around 160 kilometres west of London, has for decades been used by the United States for long-range bomber deployments and operations linked to crises in the Middle East.
The withdrawal of the bombers comes amid heightened security concerns around the base, although US military capabilities in the wider region remain in place.