US Reportedly Evacuates Aircraft From RAF Mildenhall After Iranian Threat

A US aircraft was reportedly evacuated from RAF Mildenhall in England overnight because of an Iranian threat. A report published early on November 10 said the sources describing the movement had not disclosed the nature of the threat. Separately, a US official confirmed on Monday, November 9: “Enhanced force protection measures are in effect across RAF Lakenheath and RAF Mildenhall.” The official said American forces continually assess the factors that determine protective measures and work with British counterparts to limit the impact on nearby communities. The official declined to describe the measures, citing operational security. US Air Forces in Europe said aircraft move between installations and operating locations to meet training and operational requirements. It declined to provide further details about asset movements for operational-security reasons. RAF Mildenhall hosts the 100th Air Refueling Wing, which operates KC-135 Stratotanker refueling aircraft. The base also hosts RC-135V/W Rivet Joint reconnaissance aircraft, CV-22 Osprey tiltrotors and MC-130J Commando II special-operations cargo aircraft. Nearby RAF Lakenheath hosts F-15E Strike Eagle and F-35A Lightning II aircraft. Both installations also routinely receive aircraft passing through on their way to other locations.