A NATO air base in Geilenkirchen, Germany, elevated its security measures to “Charlie,” the second-highest alert level on Thursday, Aug. 22. The move came after intelligence indicated a potential terrorist threat.
There has also been a series of suspicious incidents at military facilities across Germany, raising concerns about possible sabotage.
NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg warned of a campaign of hostile activities orchestrated by Russia, including cyberattacks and intelligence gathering.
The air base, which is home to NATO’s Airborne Warning and Control System surveillance aircraft, instituted stringent security after getting credible intel suggesting a high likelihood of terrorist action.
All non-mission essential staff have been sent home, leaving the base operating with minimal personnel while maintaining planned operations.
Details about the nature of the potential threat have not been disclosed to the public.