US Air Force pulls B-1 bombers from RAF Fairford after security incident

All United States Air Force B-1B Lancer bombers stationed at RAF Fairford in the United Kingdom have been pulled out, according to a Pentagon statement.

A spokesperson said operational security had prevented the US from confirming movements of its assets in real time, but that it could now acknowledge the bombers deployed to Fairford had returned to their home bases in the US. The spokesperson said airmen operating the American bomber fleet, including B-1, B-2 and B-52 aircraft, remain ready to deliver strike capabilities, including from the continental United States.

Around a dozen B-1B bombers were seen leaving the UK on flight tracking sites on 4 October 2026, and three US aircraft landed in South Dakota, according to The New York Times.

The withdrawal follows a security incident at the end of September 2026 in which five British nationals from London were arrested near the Gloucestershire base on suspicion of offences under the Explosives Act and of preparing a terrorist act. A sixth man, described as a British Iranian national, was arrested on suspicion of preparing terrorist acts on 1 October 2026. All six have since been released on bail.

The UK investigation is examining whether the five men arrested near Fairford were recruited without their knowledge by Iran, according to the account. Statements from the UK prime minister and the US president have pointed to Iranian involvement in the suspected plot.