A serving member of the British Royal Navy has been charged with espionage offences under the National Security Act, police authorities confirmed. Able Seaman Teddy Young, 24, of Bedfordshire, was arrested at his home on Tuesday following a specialized counter-terrorism investigation. Prosecutors allege he gathered protected defence materials that could benefit an unnamed foreign power.
Young was remanded in custody ahead of a scheduled court appearance.
According to charges authorized by the Crown Prosecution Service, the alleged conduct occurred between 26 November 2024 and 21 May 2025. Police allege the serviceman acted in preparation to disclose restricted records and copied or retained protected material with the intention of assisting an overseas state. Investigators stated the defendant reasonably ought to have known his actions were prejudicial to the security and interests of the United Kingdom.
Commander Helen Flanagan, head of Counter Terrorism Policing London, described the development as a matter involving very serious charges against an active member of the armed forces. Police worked alongside operational teams in the Ministry of Defence to implement risk mitigation measures throughout the inquiry. Investigators also emphasized that the case is entirely separate from a security alert at RAF Fairford, where seven individuals were recently bailed amid an ongoing inquiry.
A spokesperson for the Royal Navy confirmed the criminal charges against the serviceman. The Ministry of Defence declined further commentary while court proceedings remain ongoing.
