Image: from Leanne X @LeanneSpurs
By Open Chronicle Staff | Friday, March 20, 2026
FASLANE, Scotland — Security forces at HM Naval Base Clyde were placed on high alert Thursday after two individuals, including an Iranian national, were apprehended while allegedly attempting to gain unauthorized access to the home of Britain’s nuclear deterrent.
The incident occurred around 5:00 p.m. on March 19 at the high-security installation, commonly known as Faslane. Authorities confirmed that a 34-year-old man and a 31-year-old woman were turned away at the gates after failing to produce valid identification or entry passes.
While the woman’s nationality remains unconfirmed, reports from The Telegraph and The Times identify the male suspect as an Iranian citizen. Following their failed entry attempt, the pair was reportedly observed “acting suspiciously in the vicinity” of the base, leading to their arrest by Police Scotland.
“A 34-year-old man and 31-year-old woman have been arrested in connection with enquiries, and enquiries are ongoing,” Police Scotland said in a statement.
HMNB Clyde is one of the most sensitive military sites in the United Kingdom. It serves as the primary hub for the Royal Navy Submarine Service and houses the nation’s entire fleet of nine submarines. This includes the four Vanguard-class ballistic missile submarines that carry the UK’s Trident nuclear missiles, as well as the Astute-class nuclear-powered attack submarines.
A Royal Navy spokesperson confirmed the breach attempt, stating, “Police Scotland have arrested two people who unsuccessfully attempted to enter HM Naval Base Clyde on Thursday, 19 March. As the matter is subject to an ongoing investigation, we will not comment further.”
The arrests come at a time of heightened global geopolitical tension. Security analysts suggest that any attempted breach of a nuclear facility by foreign nationals is being treated with the utmost seriousness by intelligence services. Investigators are currently working to determine the motives of the pair and whether they were acting independently or on behalf of a foreign entity.
For now, security cordons around the Faslane site remain tightened as the investigation continues.