US pulls all B-1B bombers from RAF Fairford, redeploys to US bases
The United States has withdrawn all its B-1B Lancer bombers from RAF Fairford in the United Kingdom, with a Pentagon spokesperson confirming they have redeployed to their home stations in the United States.
On October 4, 2026, a dozen B-1B bombers were observed on flight‑tracking sites departing the UK, and three of those aircraft landed in South Dakota, according to The New York Times.
Six men, including five British nationals and one British‑Iranian, were arrested on suspicion of preparing terrorist acts linked to the base, but have since been released on bail, while the UK Prime Minister and US President have indicated Iran’s involvement in the suspected plot.