Two RAF aircraft were damaged in a shocking security breach at RAF Brize Norton, the UK’s largest military airbase, after activists from Palestine Action gained access on electric scooters. The activists vandalised the planes with paint and crowbars in a bold attack that has brought the base’s security into question.
The incident occurred on Wednesday, 18 June, at RAF Brize Norton in Oxfordshire. Palestine Action stated that two members managed to slip past security and reach the runway, where they targeted two Voyager aircraft. The activists fled the scene before any detentions were made. Police have not confirmed any arrests, raising concerns about how easily the intruders were able to enter and leave the base.
Palestine Action said the protest was aimed at the UK’s alleged support for Israeli military actions in Gaza. The group claims that RAF aerial refuelling planes assist Israeli air operations, a statement strongly denied by UK defence sources.
“By decommissioning two military planes, Palestine Action have directly intervened in the genocide and prevented crimes against the Palestinian people,” a spokesperson for the group said.
An RAF insider dismissed the accusations as “totally inaccurate,” adding: “This attack was utterly pointless. The UK operates independently, and Israel doesn’t need British tankers – they have their own fleet.”
The breach has sparked urgent concerns about security at RAF Brize Norton, which serves as a critical military hub for strategic air transport, aerial refuelling, and Operation Shader in the Middle East. Videos shared by the activists show them close to runways and aircraft, prompting widespread online criticism of the base’s security measures.
The Ministry of Defence has not made any public statements but is understood to be investigating the incident. The RAF has been contacted for comment.
Fast Facts: RAF Brize Norton
Located in Oxfordshire, RAF Brize Norton is the UK’s largest military airbase. It is home to the Voyager, the RAF’s primary air-to-air refuelling aircraft. The base plays a key role in supporting Operation Shader in Iraq and Syria and serves as a launch site for missions to Cyprus and NATO operations.
Originally published by UKNIP.
