LONDON, United Kingdom – A serving Royal Navy member has been charged under the National Security Act over allegations that he obtained protected information for the benefit of an unnamed foreign power.
Teddy Young, 24, from Bedfordshire, was arrested at his home on Tuesday and has been remanded in custody.
He is accused of offences under the National Security Act, including preparing to disclose protected information and obtaining, copying, recording or retaining protected information with the intention of benefiting a foreign power.
Police allege the offences took place between November 26, 2024, and May 21, 2025.
According to the charges, Young allegedly knew, or ought reasonably to have known, that his conduct could prejudice the safety or interests of the United Kingdom.
He is due to appear at Westminster Magistrates’ Court on Thursday.
Police Describe Charges As Serious
Commander Helen Flanagan, Head of Counter-Terrorism Policing London, said the allegations were particularly serious because the accused is a serving member of the armed forces.
“These are very serious charges against a serving member of the armed forces,” Flanagan said.
She said counter-terrorism officers had worked closely with colleagues at the Ministry of Defence throughout the investigation.
“We have worked extremely closely with relevant operational colleagues within the Ministry of Defence as our investigation has progressed to ensure appropriate measures could be taken to mitigate any potential risks linked to this matter,” she said.
The investigation is being handled by counter-terrorism police.
Police Rule Out Link To RAF Fairford Incident
Police said the charges against Young are not connected to a separate investigation following suspicious activity reported near RAF Fairford.
The RAF Fairford investigation has resulted in several arrests, with police confirming that a seventh man was arrested on Tuesday.
Counter-terrorism officers continue to investigate that incident.
Police have not disclosed the identity of the foreign power Young is alleged to have intended to benefit.
Royal Navy Confirms Service Member Was Charged
A Royal Navy spokesperson confirmed that a serving member had been charged but declined to comment further because court proceedings are ongoing.
“As legal proceedings are ongoing, it would be inappropriate to comment further at this stage,” the spokesperson said.
Young remains in custody ahead of his court appearance.
The allegations against him have not been tested in court.
