ALL military personnel will remain on alert this week after the terrorist attacks in America, defence secretary Geoff Hoon has confirmed.

Speaking in the House of Commons Mr Hoon has said that all military bases throughout the country will continue to have increased security and will remain on alert until a fresh decision is made.

As reported by The Herald last week security has been tightened up at RAF Odiham and the Army camps and training installations at Longmoor and Bordon.

RAF Oakhanger has also increased security at all of its four sites in Bordon and Oakhanger.

It is the focal point of military satellite communications in the UK and houses two satellite communications (Satcom) units and a NATO ground terminal.

Mr Hoon said: "Although these appalling attacks took place thousands of miles away, they are very close to the people of this country – because we, as individuals, are bound by ties of family, of friendship, and of work to the United States.  

"For those in the defence community, this tragedy is also close to home. The attacks focused on civilians in New York and Pennsylvania. 

"They also focused on our colleagues in the United States Armed Forces and the civilians who work with them. Many members of our two armed forces have trained together, deployed together, and, in many cases fought together. 

"Officials in the Ministry of Defence work closely with their colleagues in the Department of Defence The lives lost and the injuries caused by the attack on the Pentagon have had a particularly profound impact on all of those in the United Kingdom's defence community.    

"Our own preparations have also included a raft of robust contingency plans in the interests of national security and the protection of the public. These plans are well prepared, regularly exercised, tested, reviewed, and refined in the light of changing domestic and international circumstances. 

"By their very nature, these plans cannot be made public. To do so would allow potential aggressors to undermine them. But should the United Kingdom be threatened in any way we will not hesitate to defend ourselves. 

"It follows, therefore, that the events in the United States triggered an immediate precautionary response here. 

"Recognising that no specific warning was given of terrorist attacks in the United States, we immediately strengthened the position of key elements of our armed forces. 

"Specific actions have also been taken to ensure that people and buildings that might become particular targets are protected.