The United States has withdrawn all B-1 Lancer bombers from RAF Fairford, with the Pentagon confirming the aircraft have returned to their home bases following recent operations against Iran. The redeployment came after a major counter-terrorism investigation centred on the Gloucestershire air base, which had been used to launch US strikes.
Five men were arrested on suspicion of terrorism offences after suspicious vehicles were reported near the base before being released on police bail. A sixth suspect, a 25-year-old dual UK-Iranian national, was also arrested and released on bail. Police said no explosive devices were found, although petrol was recovered, and enquiries remain ongoing.
UK Prime Minister Andy Burnham said there were “strong indications” that Iran had “played a part” in the incident, while US President Donald Trump said on Monday (5 Oct) that “some threats” contributed to the decision to withdraw the bombers.
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio said the redeployment should not be directly linked to the RAF Fairford investigation, describing the movement of military assets as a routine part of US operations.
Iran has denied any involvement in the incident, rejecting suggestions that it was connected to the arrests or events at RAF Fairford. The investigation remains ongoing, with authorities continuing to assess potential links to foreign state activity while tensions between the US and Iran persist.
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