Iran threat concerns grow as US Air Force responds to suspected drone activity at British base
The incident comes weeks after US bombers that struck Iran left RAF Fairford over security concerns, with prosecutors alleging an Iranian intelligence link.
US Air Force personnel at RAF Lakenheath in Britain reacted to suspected unauthorized drone activity on Friday evening, though no one was harmed, according to a US Air Force spokesperson. The agency emphasized its ongoing cooperation with British authorities to maintain the safety of all personnel involved.The Ministry of Defence in Britain confirmed that US Air Force Security Forces had dealt with the reported unauthorized drone activity and that the matter had been resolved.
They stated they were working closely with the US Air Force to ascertain the details of the incident.A US bomber fleet had recently departed from RAF Fairford following concerns related to potential Iranian threats. Additionally, substantial refueling aircraft had been relocated from Britain to Germany. Reports suggested that an incident involving men in white vans approaching the base at night on September 27th had contributed to this shift in logistics.
Two men were subsequently charged in connection with that event, with allegations that one had attempted to aid Iranian intelligence agents within Britain.A US member of an Iran-backed militia was detained in the US on criminal charges, and the Justice Department disclosed this week that a plot to target the Fairford air base had been uncovered while the individual was in custody.
Meanwhile, Iran's domestic intelligence chief indicated in October that Tehran had intensified efforts targeting military installations in Britain.Iran has denied any involvement in the Fairford incident or any other alleged acts of subversion in Britain, where the government has long suspected Iran of orchestrating plots and assassinations against dissidents and Israeli and Jewish individuals.
Germany has blamed Russia for a failed attack at Leipzig/Halle Airport in August, following the discovery of a drone equipped with explosives and a detonator at the facility. This military logistics hub is crucial for NATO operations and serves as a significant base for large Ukrainian cargo planes.
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