Supplemental Info:
SITREP: Thwarted Incident Near RAF Fairford
On September 27 at 1800ZAt 0045 BST, a member of the British public reported three suspicious white vans and masked men near Whelford, adjacent to RAF Fairford. Armed officers arrested five men. Suspects were detained under the Explosives Act and later further arrested on suspicion of preparing a terrorist act.
A major incident was declared. Eighty-five households were evacuated; a 400-meter cordon was imposed. Army EOD teams, using a robotic system, examined the vans. Materials consistent with incendiary devices and chemicals were reported present.
Police have now assessed the incident as contained.
Counter Terrorism Policing heads the investigation it says is not intelligence-led. This is contradicted by President Trump who stated, "We had them under view for a long time and we got em." The five men remain in custody.
RAF Fairford hosts USAF B-1 and B-52 bombers used since March 2026 for strikes on Iranian targets. Iran’s IRGC had previously labelled UK bases supporting such operations “legitimate targets.” Possible state-linked motives, including Iranian involvement, are under consideration; no official attribution has been made.
RAF Fairford is operating under Force Protection Condition (FPCON) Delta.
Other bases in the UK, including RAF Lakenheath, Mildenhall, and Croughton, are operating under FPCON Charlie.
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Security Alert
U.S. Embassy UK
September 27, 2026
Location: Gloucestershire, United Kingdom
Event: The U.S. Embassy is aware of arrests on suspicion of preparing a terrorist act near the Royal Air Force base in Fairford, UK. U.S. citizens are encouraged to exercise caution and be mindful of personal security. Local authorities are evacuating certain residents in the area out of an abundance of caution. We remind U.S. citizens that UK authorities rate the threat of terrorism in the UK as severe. U.S.-associated facilities, gatherings, and organizations may be at heightened risk. U.S. citizens are advised to follow instructions of local authorities for their personal safety and security.
Actions to Take:
Be aware of your surroundings
Review your personal security plans
Notify friends and family of your safety
Monitor local media for updates
Follow instructions by local law enforcement and emergency services
Enroll in Safe Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive travel and security updates
Assistance:
U.S. Embassy London, United Kingdom
33 Nine Elms Lane
London, UK SW11 7US
+44 (0) 207-499-9000
from U.S.: 011 44 (0)20 7499-9000
SCSLondon@state.gov
https://uk.usembassy.gov/
Consulate General Belfast
+44 (0) 28 9038-6100
ConsularBelfast@state.gov
U.S. Consulate General Edinburgh
+44 (0) 131 556-8315
EdinburghConsular@state.gov
State Department – Consular Affairs
888-407-4747 or 202-501-4444
United Kingdom Country Information
Enroll in Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive security updates.
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View the Original:
https://uk.usembassy.gov/security-alert-u-s-embassy-london-united-kingdom-september-27-2026/
