Britain's military space operation chief has been suspended amid an investigation into an alleged serious sexual offence.
Air Vice-Marshal Jamie Thompson took charge of the UK Space Command earlier this year after previously serving as its deputy commander.
He is responsible for running Britain's military operations in space, including monitoring threats and protecting satellites.
An RAF spokesperson said: "Air Vice-Marshal James Thompson was suspended without prejudice as part of an investigation."
A Defence Serious Crime Command spokesperson said: "We can confirm that a member of the RAF was arrested in connection to reports of theft and a serious sexual offence involving an adult.
"The theft investigation has concluded and has been referred to the Service Prosecuting Authority for a charging decision.
"The investigation into the alleged serious sexual offence remains ongoing, and therefore it'd be inappropriate to comment further."
The RAF said Air Commodore Darren Whiteley has been made the space organisation's interim commander.
More from Sky News:
Scotland the worst for drug deaths in Europe
Ed Sheeran has 'difficult dilemma', says Sting
Headquartered in Buckinghamshire, Space Command brings together personnel and capabilities from the RAF, Army and Royal Navy.
Air Vice-Marshal Thompson joined the RAF in 1997 as a weapons technician.
He took over the Space Command role from Major General Paul Tedman, who announced his retirement in June.
(c) Sky News 2026: Space Command chief suspended amid investigation into alleged sexual offence
RAF training aircraft crashes in Wales - two pilots injured after ejecting
Home secretary orders 'urgent review' as second small boat in two days reaches UK after evading Border Force
Harvey Weinstein sentenced to 15 years for sexual assault
Oasis announce more shows including extra Knebworth gigs
Labour donor Vince rescues London newspapers two years after Observer bid
Fraud 'mastermind' behind gang who used TV and film aliases jailed for five years
