RAF Brize Norton Breached by Activists in Paint and Crowbar Attack on Military Planes
Two RAF aircraft have been damaged in a high-profile security breach at the UK’s largest military airbase after activists from Palestine Action allegedly used electric scooters to infiltrate the perimeter and vandalise aircraft with paint and crowbars.
The incident took place on Wednesday, 18 June, and has triggered serious concerns over base security and the safeguarding of critical defence assets.
Activists Damage Voyager Aircraft
According to Palestine Action, two of their members gained access to the base and reached two RAF Voyager aircraft. Using repurposed fire extinguishers, they sprayed red paint into the aircraft engines, reportedly to symbolise the blood of Palestinians. The group also claims the activists used crowbars to inflict additional damage to the airframes and spread paint across the runway.
The two activists managed to flee before they were detained. Authorities have not confirmed whether any arrests have been made at this stage.
Protest Over Alleged UK-Israel Military Links
Palestine Action says the protest was a direct intervention against what it claims is the UK’s role in supporting Israeli air operations in Gaza. The group alleges that RAF aerial refuelling missions support Israeli strikes — a claim 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 said.
An RAF source dismissed the claims as “totally inaccurate,” stating that the aircraft targeted are not involved in operations supporting Israel.
“This attack was utterly pointless. The UK operates independently and Israel has no requirement for British tankers — they operate their own fleet,” the source added.
Base Security Under Scrutiny
The breach has raised urgent questions about security protocols at RAF Brize Norton — a critical hub for strategic air transport, aerial refuelling, and Operation Shader, the UK’s military effort in the Middle East.
Footage from the scene shared by activists shows activists near the aircraft and runway, prompting online outrage and condemnation over how the high-security facility was accessed.
The Ministry of Defence (MoD) has not yet issued a formal statement, but inquiries are believed to be underway. The RAF has been contacted for an official comment.
About RAF Brize Norton
- Located in Oxfordshire, RAF Brize Norton is the UK’s largest military airbase
- Home to the Voyager, the RAF’s primary air-to-air refuelling aircraft
- Key support base for Operation Shader in Iraq and Syria
- Launch site for flights to Cyprus and other NATO operations
