US Pulls Entire B-1 Supersonic Bombers From UK Base After Suspected Iran-Linked Terror Plot

The Wall Street Journal reported late Sunday afternoon that all US Rockwell B-1 Lancer supersonic bombers had been removed from Britain's RAF Fairford air base over mounting security concerns following a suspected terrorist plot against the facility one week ago.

The Department of War confirmed to the news outlet that all supersonic, variable-sweep-wing heavy bombers deployed to Fairford had returned to their home stations in the U.S.

"While operational security precluded us from confirming the movement of our assets and forces in real-time, we can acknowledge now that all U.S. bombers that were deployed to RAF Fairford have redeployed to their home stations in the United States," the DoW said in a statement, adding that the bombers remained ready to deliver global strike capabilities from the US.

Reuters published more details about the suspected terror plot on Saturday, reporting that British counterterrorism police had detained a 25-year-old dual UK-Iranian national last week on suspicion of preparing terrorist acts. The man has since been released.

"The investigation into the circumstances surrounding events in Gloucestershire is continuing," police said in a statement.

The terror plot investigation began after five British men in their 20s were arrested near the air base last Sunday.

Officers found petrol in the vans but no improvised explosive device. Police released the men on bail without charge, under stringent conditions.

Prime Minister Andy Burnham said the incident might have an Iranian link, while President Donald Trump alleged it was a big plan to cause a lot of damage at the base. Secretary of State Marco Rubio also suggested foreign involvement.