The U.S. Air Force has returned all bombers stationed at RAF Fairford in England to the United States following an investigation into a suspected terrorist plot targeting the military installation. A Defense Department official confirmed that the aircraft deployed to the base have been redeployed to their home stations across the country. The abrupt withdrawal involved at least 12 bombers, including several that had recently arrived as part of a scheduled rotation. Aviation tracking groups had previously noted extensive operations by B-52 and B-1 bombers out of the facility located about 100 miles west of London. A Pentagon representative emphasized that the airmen operating the strategic bomber fleet remain fully prepared to deliver global precision strikes from the continental United States at any time. The security measures follow an arrest in central London last week of a dual British-Iranian national suspected of plotting an attack following a late September security incident at the base. In total, authorities have detained and released on bail six individuals during the ongoing investigation. British officials have connected the incident to Tehran, though Iran has denied any involvement. RAF Fairford has historically supported American bomber operations throughout decades of Middle Eastern conflicts, including recent strikes against Iran. Meanwhile, President Donald Trump continues to evaluate options for the military campaign in Iran. The U.S. military maintains a substantial presence in the broader region, with additional naval assets including the USS Theodore Roosevelt aircraft carrier heading toward the area ahead of potential deployments.
Source: nbcnews.com
