Unspecified Iran threat prompted refueling tankers to move from UK to Germany, official says

Tankers relocated to Germany

A U.S. official told ABC News that the military takes proactive steps to keep aircraft, people and installations secure. The official did not provide further details about the threat.

Security levels raised

The same source said protection levels at RAF Mildenhall and RAF Lakenheath had been raised to FPCON Charlie. The report did not specify when the changes took effect.

The Wall Street Journal first reported the reason for moving the aircraft from the bases. The War Zone first reported the increased security postures.

Air Force cites varied reasons

The U.S. Air Force said aircraft may move among installations and operating locations for training or real-world requirements. It also said U.S. aircraft are hosted under agreements with allied and partner countries.

The spokesperson said the Air Force would not give more information about asset movements because of operations security. The statement did not confirm the specific Iran-related explanation.

Earlier Fairford investigation

In September, an alleged Iranian security threat at RAF Fairford prompted B-1 bombers stationed there to be redeployed to the United States. Seven men were initially detained and later released.

Two of those men were subsequently charged under the United Kingdom’s National Security Act in connection with the investigation. Prosecutors alleged one likely tried to assist Iranian intelligence inside the UK.