The NATO airbase near Geilenkirchen, Germany, raised its security level late on August 22, in response to a potential threat. The base announced the increase in a post on X, stating that the security level was raised based on intelligence information indicating a potential threat.

"All non-mission essential staff have been sent home as a precautionary measure. The safety of our staff is our top priority. Operations continue as planned," the base stated. According to a spokesperson for the base, the threat level had been elevated to Charlie, the second-highest of four states of alert.

The Charlie alert is defined as “an incident (that) has occurred or intelligence has been received indicating that some form of terrorist action against NATO organisations or personnel is highly likely.”

This alert follows a recent similar incident. Last week, a military base in nearby Cologne was temporarily sealed off while authorities investigated a potential sabotage of the water supply. On the same day, the Geilenkirchen base also reported an attempted trespassing incident.

The German military later confirmed that test results showed the tap water in Cologne was not contaminated, giving the all-clear.

Germany, an important ally of Ukraine, has been on high alert for potential sabotage and attacks on military facilities, especially following Russia’s 2022 invasion of Ukraine. In April of this year, investigators arrested two German-Russian men on suspicion of spying for Russia and planning attacks in Germany, including on U.S. army facilities, in an effort to undermine military support for Ukraine.

The situation at the Geilenkirchen airbase remains under close watch, with security measures in place to protect personnel and ensure the continuity of operations amid ongoing concerns.

Image source: Reuters