Two pro-Palestinian activists infiltrated the UK’s largest airbase and sprayed red paint into the engines of two military aircraft, prompting outrage and sparking concerns over national security.
The incident, which occurred under the cover of darkness, was captured and shared online by the protest group Palestine Action. Footage shows one activist riding a scooter up to an Airbus Voyager and spraying paint into its jet engine using a repurposed fire extinguisher. The group claims the act rendered the aircraft “out of service,” though RAF engineers are still assessing the damage. Defence sources say it is unlikely to impact operational readiness.
Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer condemned the act as “disgraceful” and labelled it “vandalism, not protest.” The Ministry of Defence (MoD) echoed his sentiments and confirmed a review of security protocols at military bases is underway. Thames Valley Police, which is leading the investigation, confirmed that inquiries are ongoing to identify and arrest those involved.
Palestine Action has claimed responsibility, stating the action was in response to the UK’s continued military cooperation with Israel amid the Gaza conflict. “Despite publicly condemning the Israeli government, Britain continues to support operations that harm Palestinian civilians,” a spokesperson said.
RAF Brize Norton is a strategic hub for air transport and refuelling, supporting operations in the Middle East, including reconnaissance flights over Gaza from RAF Akrotiri in Cyprus.
The breach raised serious concerns among defence officials and politicians. Lord West, former head of the Royal Navy, called it “extremely worrying,” highlighting the risks posed by inadequate base security. Shadow Armed Forces Minister Mark Francois said the incident was “totally reprehensible” and demanded answers from the MoD.
Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch described the breach as “deeply concerning,” branding it “politically motivated criminality.” She warned against tolerating extremist actions disguised as protest.
Though no damage was reported to the Vespina aircraft used by the Prime Minister, the breach underscores vulnerabilities in base security and raises questions about how activists were able to gain access to such a highly secured facility.
