A dozen B-1 bombers stationed at RAF Fairford in Gloucestershire were redeployed to the US on Sunday amid concerns over a possible threat from Iran. Downing Street has insisted that the military site is secure, contrasting with the concerns expressed by the US military during the hasty redeployment.
Official Statements
The prime minister’s official spokesperson confirmed the safety of the base during a scheduled briefing, stating, "yes" when asked about its security. This assurance came after US officials indicated that commanders had received new threats regarding an Iran-backed plot against the site. The spokesperson referenced comments made by Defence Secretary Wes Streeting, emphasizing that there are "tried and tested approaches to defend our bases around the country and throughout the world."
Rapid Redeployment
Aircraft trackers reported that the entire squadron of 12 B-1 bombers had redeployed from the British base to the US on Sunday, a rapid movement confirmed by the Pentagon. Some bombers left so quickly that refueling aircraft had to be scrambled to support their flights.
Marco Rubio, the US Secretary of State, downplayed any discrepancies with the UK, stating that military deployments are normal and expressing confidence in the security of all US bases. He noted, "with the Brits, we’ve worked very closely a long time, including on this investigation, and they couldn’t be more cooperative."
