A serving member of the Royal Navy has been charged with offences linked to the alleged handling of protected information for the benefit of a foreign power.
Teddy Young, 24, is accused of obtaining information that could benefit a foreign state, with Russia understood to be the country involved.
Counter-Terror Police Arrest Young
Young was arrested by counter-terrorism officers at his home in Bedfordshire on Tuesday.
He had previously been arrested in Hampshire last year as part of the investigation.
Police allege that between November 26, 2024, and May 21, 2025, Young engaged in conduct in preparation for an offence involving the disclosure of protected information.
He is also accused of obtaining, copying, recording or retaining protected information during the same period with the intention of benefiting a foreign power.
Charges Made Under National Security Act
The allegations state that Young ought reasonably to have known that his conduct could be prejudicial to the safety or interests of the United Kingdom.
Both charges have been brought under the National Security Act 2023.
Young remains in custody and is due to appear at Westminster Magistrates’ Court later today.
Police Confirm Ministry of Defence Cooperation
Commander Helen Flanagan, head of Counter Terrorism Policing London, described the allegations as serious given Young’s position as a serving member of the armed forces.
She said officers had worked closely with relevant operational colleagues within the Ministry of Defence throughout the investigation, allowing appropriate measures to be taken in relation to potential risks connected to the case.
Flanagan also urged people not to speculate about the allegations while court proceedings are underway, saying it was important for the case to progress through the justice system without interference.
Russia Link Not Officially Confirmed
Police have not publicly identified the foreign country Young is alleged to have attempted to assist, although Russia is understood to be involved.
Officers also confirmed that Young’s arrest is separate from recent counter-terrorism investigations connected to an incident at RAF Fairford.
Separate Fairford Investigation Continues
On Tuesday, police investigating the Fairford incident arrested a 22-year-old British man in central London on suspicion of preparing terrorist acts.
He became the seventh person arrested in connection with the suspected plot, which authorities have linked to Iran.
Police have not publicly released extensive details about the investigation.
Five British men in their 20s were previously detained near the perimeter of the airbase during the early hours of September 27.
A 25-year-old British Iranian man was also arrested in London on Thursday.
All six of those previously arrested have since been released on bail while remaining under investigation.
