US Evacuates B-1 Bombers From UK Base Amid Iran-Backed Attack Threat

The United States military rapidly evacuated all B-1 bombers from RAF Fairford in the United Kingdom over the weekend, following security warnings of a potential Iran-backed attack. The Wall Street Journal reported that over ten bombers were stationed at the British base, which had been used by the US military in operations against Iran. This move signifies a significant shift in American readiness in the face of the threat.

The New York Times reported that the evacuation was unusually swift after US commanders received new intelligence late last week about a possible plot against the base. The urgency was so high that some bombers departed for the US while their designated refueling aircraft were still preparing for the mission. At least three of the bombers have since returned to their home base in South Dakota.

An American official indicated the warning was linked to information received about three weeks prior, but the urgency escalated significantly in the 24 hours before the evacuation. While full details remain undisclosed, US, British, German, and Israeli assessments suggest the threat may involve Iran's Revolutionary Guard Corps or another Iranian military entity, though Tehran has denied these claims.

Israel reportedly issued a warning to Germany that US bases there, including Ramstein and Spangdahlem, are also at increased risk. Intelligence assessments consider drone attacks as a potential scenario. The US action is considered unusual, involving the rapid removal of significant air power from an allied nation's base not located in a war zone.

The Pentagon officially confirmed the bombers' departure after the operation was completed, stating that operational security prevented real-time details but all US bombers had returned to their bases in the US. The Defense Department emphasized that the aircraft remain capable of global strike missions from their US bases. The evacuation occurred days after six individuals were arrested in the UK in connection with a suspected plot against the base; they were later released, but the investigation continues. British Prime Minister Andy Burnham stated there were "strong indications" of possible Iranian involvement.

The B-1 bomber is capable of speeds around 1,459 km/h and can carry approximately 34 tons of ordnance, forming a key component of the US Air Force's long-range bomber force.