Two more US aircraft arrive at RAF Fairford

Two US Air Force Boeing C-17 Globemaster transport planes landed at RAF Fairford in Gloucestershire, UK, following the arrival of B-1 Lancer bombers earlier in the week. The UK is allowing the US to use its bases for defensive operations amid heightened tensions in the Middle East, specifically involving Iran. One C-17 arrived from Glasgow Prestwick after being diverted due to weather, reportedly carrying munitions and spare parts, while the other came from McGuire Airbase in New Jersey. Keir Starmer authorized the US to use UK bases after retaliatory attacks targeted British allies and the RAF base in Cyprus. In response, the UK is also sending HMS Dragon to the region and reducing the readiness time for HMS Prince of Wales.

Four U.S. B-1 Lancer bombers have arrived at RAF Fairford in Gloucestershire, UK, following a week of reported U.S. and Israeli strikes on Iran. The first bomber landed on Friday evening, with three more arriving Saturday morning. British Prime Minister Keir Starmer authorized the use of UK bases for "defensive" U.S. action against Iranian missile sites. The B-1 Lancer is a large, fast bomber capable of carrying 24 cruise missiles and equipped with advanced radar, GPS, and defensive systems. The bomber has been deployed previously in Syria, Libya, Afghanistan, and Iraq.