Gloucestershire’s RAF Fairford has been the focus of a major security operation following a suspected terror incident early this morning. Five men were arrested after an armed police response, and 85 homes were evacuated as a precaution.
The situation began at approximately 12:45am when police received a tip-off about three suspicious vans travelling towards the base. RAF Fairford has recently seen heightened activity and was permitted earlier this year for use by the US Air Force to target Iranian missile sites following attacks on shipping in the Strait of Hormuz.
Armed officers from Gloucestershire Constabulary intercepted the three vehicles near the Whelford area, leading to the arrest of five men on suspicion of offences under the Explosives Act. The men remain in police custody as investigations continue.
READ MORE: RAF Fairford terror plot foiled after arrests near Gloucestershire airbase
READ MORE: David Perry Transport applies for goods vehicle licence at Gloucester concrete plant
Residents had reported increased security in the area in recent weeks, including the presence of heavy vehicles blocking entry points and concrete barriers erected around the base.
Reports emerged that armed police had carried out checks on vehicles approaching the airfield from as early as 8:30pm the previous evening, temporarily closing roads and instructing drivers to take alternative routes. While unsettling for some residents, these measures were part of heightened vigilance.
At around 1am, those living on Horcott Road, the main link between Fairford and Whelford, were ordered to evacuate amid the declared major incident. Emergency services directed residents to a nearby leisure centre for safety.
Throughout the early morning, a police helicopter patrolled the area, while armed officers set up roadblocks. By 8:30am, Gloucestershire Constabulary confirmed the arrests and ongoing investigations on the vehicles, with cordons remaining in place. The Army’s Explosive Ordnance Disposal Unit was called to examine three vans involved in the incident.
The US Air Force confirmed personnel at RAF Fairford were taking appropriate measures to ensure safety. An incident control centre was established at Fairford Youth FC ground, where emergency services maintained a strong presence.
Defence Secretary Wes Streeting reassured the public that the situation was under control and expressed gratitude to the emergency responders. The Prime Minister was also briefed about the incident and thanked the services involved.
Counter Terrorism Police have taken the lead in the investigation, although reports indicate there was no prior intelligence of the plot. RAF Fairford was placed on the highest Delta threat alert, signalling intelligence of an imminent terrorist threat. Meanwhile, RAF Lakenheath in Suffolk, another US airbase, was elevated to the Charlie threat level.
Authorities reminded residents that RAF Fairford had been designated as a protected site in April under the Serious Organised Crime and Police Act 2005, making trespassing a criminal offence.
Images emerged of bomb disposal robots near the vans and armed officers surrounding suspects who appeared to have been detained. The Metropolitan Police later confirmed the men were also arrested on suspicion of preparing a terrorist act.
Local officials have acknowledged the anxiety caused by the incident and the possibility that some evacuated residents may need to remain away from their homes overnight.
The incident remains under investigation, with authorities continuing to work closely with US counterparts to ensure safety and security. Residential areas near RAF Fairford remain affected by the ongoing police operation, and officials have yet to provide a timeline for when evacuees may return home.