The NATO airbase in Geilenkirchen, North Rhine-Westphalia, has raised its security level to the second-highest, Charlie, following intelligence reports of a potential threat.

As a precaution, non-essential personnel have been sent home.

The Charlie level indicates a likely terrorist threat against the alliance, though officials stress there is no immediate cause for alarm.

The base is home to NATO's AWACS early warning aircraft, which play a crucial role in airspace monitoring and command operations.

Recent security concerns follow suspected sabotage incidents at other military sites, although no concrete threats have been confirmed.

Police are actively involved, but details remain sparse.