US withdraws B1 bombers from RAF Fairford citing security threats

The United States military has removed its B-1 bombers from RAF Fairford in England back to their home stations in America, the Pentagon confirmed on Sunday. President Donald Trump stated on Monday that the withdrawal was prompted by security threats to the military airbase. Al Jazeera and France 24 both reported that the sudden pullout was driven by concerns over a potential attack. [1][2][3][5]

The pullout follows an incident last week where counter-terrorism police were alerted to suspicious vehicles near the base, leading to nearby evacuations. France 24 reported that police found no explosives after searching the area. A Downing Street spokesperson stated on Monday that RAF Fairford remains safe despite the departure of the American aircraft. [1][3][4][5][8]

The Pentagon confirmed that about a dozen B-1 Lancer heavy bombers were stationed at the Gloucestershire airbase prior to their departure. RAF Fairford is the United States Air Force's only European airfield built to support heavy bombers and regularly hosts Bomber Task Force operations. [1][3][11]

Former NATO operations director David Des Roches said an alleged explosives plot had forced the repositioning, according to Al Jazeera. United States media also indicated that a new threat contributed to the decision to move the bomber fleet back to American home bases. [2][3]