US shifts a dozen aircraft from UK base amid Iran threat
The United States moved at least twelve military aircraft from RAF Mildenhall in eastern England on Monday, 9 Nov, after a threat linked to Iran was reported. About ten KC-135 Stratotanker refuelling planes went to Germany, Spain and Scotland, and three Osprey aircraft landed at RAF Lakenheath on Tuesday. RAF Mildenhall has raised its alert level to FPCON Charlie. A US official called the moves proactive, while US officials are still discussing the nature of the threat.
Key facts
- Seven people, including a British-Iranian national, were arrested over an alleged plot to target RAF Fairford.
- About 12,300 US military and civilian defence personnel are stationed in the UK, a Ministry of Defence minister said.
- Iran's Revolutionary Guards have said airbases used by US forces in Britain are legitimate targets.
- US European Command will not provide further information on asset movements for operations security reasons.
Summarised with AI from 5 sources · Updated 20:11Read our AI policy
Why it matters
The moves add to US force relocations from British bases tied to Iran-related security concerns.
What changed
Summary updated
First published from The Times of India, The Straits Times, Middle East Eye, The Jerusalem Post and Hindustan Times