The British government has intensified its response to a security breach in Gloucestershire by appointing a specialized national unit to lead the ongoing criminal probe. Counter Terrorism Police are now directing the investigation into a major incident near RAF Fairford, where several men were detained on suspicion of violating the Explosives Act. Army bomb disposal teams are currently examining vehicles in the village of Whelford, which was partially evacuated, though Gloucestershire Police state the situation is now contained and the UK Prime Minister is receiving updates.

RAF Fairford is the only European site where the US Air Force maintains heavy bombers and currently hosts 5 B-1 Lancers, having hosted 21 in March during a buildup for operations against Iran. The base is currently on Force Protection Condition Delta, the highest alert level, while RAF Lakenheath is on FPCON Charlie. Security was also increased at RAF Mildenhall, where an air ambulance was denied airspace access Sunday. The Iranian Revolutionary Guard has previously named Fairford as a legitimate target, though British officials have not yet established a motive for the arrests.