The US Air Force is investigating a fire at the Gloucestershire-based “Fairford“ Air Base, used as a launch pad for US bombers flying missions in the Iran War.
Several firefighting crews were deployed to the scene of the incident at the Royal Air Force base on Sunday. A video released suggests that the fire broke out in a building that houses a shop selling food and equipment. Photos show the roof of the building has collapsed. No one was injured and no RAF aircraft were damaged.
“Fairford“ is a key launch pad for US bombers flying missions over Iran. Using the British base cuts the time the planes have to spend in the air by half. It is one of only two bases in Europe capable of hosting all three of the US long-range bombers - the B-1 Lancer, B-2 Spirit and B-52 Stratofortress.
In March, the British government allowed the US air force to use the base for defensive operations after the outbreak of war in the Middle East. Anti-war activists protested the decision. About 200 people gathered at the base on Saturday, surrounding roads were closed and residents were told to expect disruption, but no arrests were made. The investigation is ongoing, but initial data indicates that there is no reason to suspect arson.