The US Defense Department confirmed that B-1 Lancer bombers stationed at RAF Fairford in Gloucestershire have returned to bases in the United States, a week after arrests nearby on suspicion of preparing terrorist acts.
The United States Air Force has withdrawn its B-1 Lancer bombers from RAF Fairford in Gloucestershire, and the US Department of Defense said the aircraft have returned to bases in the United States. BBC News reported the departure after the base had been used as the preferred European station for the bombers.
The move came about a week after five men were arrested near the base on suspicion of preparing terrorist acts. Reuters reported that British Prime Minister Andy Burnham described the suspected plot as likely backed by Iran, and that the aircraft had recently been used in connection with US strikes on Iran.
Fairford, about 90 miles west of London, is the US Air Force’s usual European hub for bomber deployments. A dozen B-1s had been stationed there, according to reporting cited by the Japan Times and other outlets relaying US officials.
AP reported that a dual UK-Iranian national arrested on suspicion of plotting a terror attack was released on bail on Saturday. Officials have not publicly detailed the evidence linking the arrests to the bomber withdrawal.
The withdrawal removes a visible US strike presence from southern England while investigations continue. No public timetable has been given for any return of the bombers to Fairford.
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- Reuters reported Prime Minister Andy Burnham said the suspected plot was likely backed by Iran.
- AP reported the dual UK-Iranian national arrested on suspicion of plotting a terror attack was released on bail.