🇺🇸🇬🇧⚡️ — BREAKING: RAF Fairford has reportedly been placed under FPCON Delta, the highest U.S. military force-protection level, according to aircraft spotters monitoring the base.

The development comes amid a major incident in nearby Whelford, where several properties are being evacuated following the arrest of several men on suspicion of offences under the Explosives Act.

The Army’s specialist explosive ordnance disposal team is examining a number of vehicles, while police have established a cordon and residents are being moved to a nearby leisure centre. Authorities say the incident is contained.

A USAF spokesperson said the 501st Combat Support Wing is “vigilant” and is taking appropriate measures to protect personnel and the installation, but declined to discuss specific force-protection measures for operational-security reasons.

FPCON Delta is the highest level in the U.S. military’s force-protection system. RAF Fairford is operated by the USAF’s 501st Combat Support Wing.