Heightened Security at German NATO Air Base Amid 'Potential Threat'

Security has been elevated at the NATO air base in Geilenkirchen, Germany, due to a potential threat, leading to the dismissal of non-essential staff. The base hosts AWACS aircraft. Recent events have raised concerns about infrastructure vulnerability, with investigations ongoing into potential sabotage and espionage activities.

Security has been heightened at the NATO air base in Geilenkirchen, Western Germany, following intelligence reports of a 'potential threat.' As a precaution, all non-essential personnel have been sent home, NATO officials confirmed.

The Geilenkirchen base is pivotal, serving as the home of the alliance's Airborne Warning and Control System (AWACS) aircraft. A social media post from NATO's AWACS fleet on Thursday night confirmed the raised security level but did not elaborate on the threat's nature. Operations at the base continue unaffected.

Last week, a German air force base near Cologne was temporarily locked down due to water supply sabotage fears, although no evidence was found. Additionally, suspicious activities near Geilenkirchen led to a brief detainment. These incidents coincide with growing concerns about potential Russian sabotage of critical infrastructure.

(With inputs from agencies.)