UK Military Bases Security 2025-06-30
2025-06-30
TAGS
Response quality
Questions & Answers
Q1
Partial Answer
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Context
Following criminal vandalism at RAF Brize Norton, Sarah Hall questioned the extent of cooperation between the Ministry of Defence and other Government agencies to address emerging threats.
To what extent is the Ministry of Defence working with other Government agencies to ensure a joined-up response to emerging threats to military equipment and infrastructure?
Counter-terrorism police are still investigating the incident at RAF Brize Norton, and it is right that we allow them the space to complete that investigation. The wider review looks at security at not just RAF Brize Norton, but all defence sites. We are looking with colleagues across Government at what investment is needed, and at how we can work with others to secure the safety of sites to ensure that the UK maintains operational security for all its assets.
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Assessment & feedback
Specific details on collaborative efforts and threat responses were not provided.
Response accuracy
Q2
Partial Answer
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Context
Sir Julian Lewis inquired about the specific security measures, such as sensors on perimeter fences, to alert of intrusions at RAF sites following the vandalism incident.
Almost by definition, RAF sites have to have very long perimeter fences, so it is understandable that they could be overcome at one point or another. Why were they apparently not fitted with sensors, at least, so that any intrusion would have sounded the alarm?
I do not want to pre-empt the findings of all the reviews, but the right hon. Gentleman is right that our air bases tend to cover a large area. The perimeter fences we inherited on many of our air bases were not designed to keep everyone out with large things, but to be a perimeter defence. In the ongoing security work, we are looking at how technological solutions and changes in guarding might contribute to enhanced security, given the increased threat that we face.
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Assessment & feedback
Specific details on current technological solutions were not provided.
Response accuracy