A number of homes in the village of Kempsford were evacuated on Sept. 27 after authorities launched a security operation near RAF Fairford. Gloucestershire Police declared a major incident in the Whelford area and arrested multiple men on suspicion of violating the Explosives Act, calling in Army bomb disposal units to inspect several vehicles. Local police officials believe the situation is now contained.

The incident follows a security surge at RAF Fairford, which hosts U.S. strategic bombers and was placed on Force Protection Condition Delta, the highest possible alert level, due to credible threat intelligence. The U.S. Air Force also moved RAF Lakenheath to FPCON Charlie and dispersed B-1 bombers across the Fairford tarmac. A USAF spokesperson stated the 501st Combat Support Wing remains vigilant to protect personnel and civilians but declined to discuss specific security measures.