A serving member of the Royal Navy has been charged with two offenses under the National Security Act 2023, including allegations related to obtaining protected information intended to benefit a foreign power.

Teddy Young, 24, from Bedfordshire, was arrested at his home address on Tuesday and taken into custody in London. The Crown Prosecution Service authorized the charges on Wednesday. Young has been remanded in custody and is scheduled to appear at Westminster Magistrates' Court on Thursday.

The alleged conduct occurred between November 26, 2024, and May 21, 2025. One charge alleges that Young engaged in conduct in preparation for committing an offense of disclosing protected information, contrary to section 18 of the National Security Act 2023. The second charge alleges that he obtained, copied, recorded or retained protected information, intending the conduct to benefit a foreign power, knowing or having regard to other matters known to him ought reasonably to know was prejudicial to the safety or interests of the United Kingdom, contrary to section 1 of the act.

The foreign power has not been named in the charges. Counter Terrorism Policing London led the investigation. Commander Helen Flanagan, head of the unit, stated that these are very serious charges against a serving member of the armed forces. She noted close cooperation with the Ministry of Defence to mitigate any potential risks.

Police have confirmed that the arrest and charges are not connected to the recent investigation into an incident at RAF Fairford. A Royal Navy spokesperson said it would be inappropriate to comment further while legal proceedings are ongoing.

Young faces court proceedings that will determine the next steps in the case.