U.S. Air Force ramps up secretive flights at British bases after Maduro’s capture

A sudden influx of U.S. transport and gunship flights at British airbases hints at covert operations. What’s the mission—and why now? Analysts dig deeper.

, and Administrator

2026 January 4 . 7:23 PM

1 min read

In this picture there is an aircraft in the center of the image.

U.S. Air Force ramps up secretive flights at British bases after Maduro’s capture

Flight tracking data has revealed a sharp rise in U.S. Air Force activity at British airbases. Multiple C-17 Globemaster III transport aircraft and two AC-130 gunships have landed at RAF bases in recent days. The movements come shortly after President Donald Trump confirmed the capture of Nicolás Maduro in Venezuela.

Around ten C-17 flights have been recorded, with most departing from Fort Campbell, Kentucky, and Hunter Army Airfield, Georgia. These bases host units like the 75th Ranger Regiment, the 101st Airborne Division, and the 160th Special Operations Aviation Regiment—all known for rapid-response and high-risk missions. Observers suggest the aircraft may have carried U.S. Army rotary-wing assets, including MH-47 Chinook helicopters.

RAF Fairford has seen similar surges in C-17 traffic before major U.S. operations, such as the June 2025 strikes on Iranian nuclear sites. However, neither U.S. nor UK officials have explained the purpose or duration of the current deployments. Washington has also not confirmed whether these movements relate directly to the Maduro operation or form part of a wider repositioning effort.

The aircraft types and flight patterns point to the involvement of special operations forces. Yet, the specific units behind the movements remain unconfirmed, as the U.S. has not disclosed operational details.

The arrival of U.S. military transport and gunship aircraft in the UK follows a recent high-profile operation in Venezuela. While the exact role of these forces is unclear, the scale and nature of the deployments suggest ongoing strategic adjustments. No official statements have been made regarding their intended use or how long they will remain.