US air force issues major update on RAF Fairford fire after Iran raids | UK | News
The US Air Force launched an investigation after a fire broke out early Sunday morning at RAF Fairford in Gloucestershire – a British base that serves as a key launch pad for American bombers conducting missions against Iran.
Many fire brigades were dispatched to the incident, which started around 01:00 at night. Video of the fire showed smoke billowing from what appeared to be the base’s mess hall (a store that provides food and equipment); Photos also showed that the roof of the building collapsed. No one was injured and no RAF aircraft were damaged.
RAF Fairford is one of only two bases in Europe that can host America’s three long-range bombers – the B-1 Lancer, B-2 Spirit and B-52 Stratofortress. Using the British base halves the time aircraft must spend in the air on Iran missions. The government allowed the U.S. Air Force to use Fairford for defensive operations in March following the outbreak of hostilities in the Middle East.
What did the US Air Force say about RAF Fairford?
According to the Times, the US Air Force said: “There were no injuries, the fire is under control and does not currently pose any risk to essential members of the public or the local community.
“We are grateful for the support of our local community members and services. The safety of our staff, their families and surrounding communities remains our top priority.
“An investigation has been initiated and is ongoing. More information will be released as it becomes available.”
What did the fire brigade say about the RAF fire?
Gloucestershire Fire and Rescue Service reportedly said: “The fire broke out in a single-storey industrial warehouse building. It was safely contained and there were no casualties.
The teams are at the scene this morning for precautionary purposes and to fully resolve the incident. “The fire investigation is ongoing and preliminary findings indicate that the cause of the fire was nothing more than an accident.”
On Saturday, the day before the fire, about 200 anti-war demonstrators gathered at the base and marched toward the end of the runway.
Surrounding roads were closed and residents were warned to expect disruption, although no arrests were made. Protesters held banners saying “No war on Iran”, “US withdraws from British bases” and “Stop Trump’s deadly wars”.
