More than six months after US military aircraft arrived at RAF Fairford in Gloucestershire, a campaign group has reiterated its appeal for the bombers to return home.
The first US bomber jets touched down at the base in March, coinciding with heightened tensions between the US and Iran. Since then, aircraft including B-52s, B-1 Lancers, and C-17As have been stationed there. A local pub landlord has reported that the noise from these aircraft, especially during arrivals and departures, can be heard even in the early hours.
RAF Fairford’s association with the United States Air Force dates back nearly 80 years, following a 1948 agreement that allowed the American military to utilise the base during the Cold War as part of the European deterrent against the Soviet Union. A government document published in March confirmed that the base has seen extensive use by US forces in previous conflicts, such as Operation Iraqi Freedom in 2003.
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Despite this long history, many residents near RAF Fairford have expressed mixed feelings about its current role amid the conflicts under the previous US administration. Since March, several protests have taken place in Fairford opposing the ongoing military actions. Additionally, surrounding villages, which have seen a surge in plane spotters, have raised concerns over the impact on daily life.
The Campaign for Nuclear Disarmament (CND) described the continued presence of US forces as “absolutely shocking” after half a year, urging the UK government and the new Prime Minister to take decisive action.
Sophie Bolt, General Secretary of CND, commented: “It is absolutely shocking that six months into the unlawful US and Israeli bombing of Iran, the devastating conflict persists, only exacerbating the global economic situation. The UK’s permission for the US to use bases like Fairford and Diego Garcia has helped prolong this disaster and increased risks to the British population, as bases such as RAF Fairford are now seen as legitimate targets.”
She further noted that prior to the intervention by Israel and the US, Iran’s nuclear programme was “close to a diplomatic solution,” which has since been undermined, escalating broader threats. Ms Bolt added that both CND and Fairford Action have consistently protested at RAF Fairford and intend to continue until the UK ends its support.
“Leaders such as Andy Burnham could expedite a peaceful resolution and reduce the threat of a global recession by closing these bases and ensuring the departure of Trump’s bombers,” she concluded.
Beyond the political debate, local residents also voice practical concerns. A landlady of a pub in Kempsford, situated near RAF Fairford, expressed frustration over noise pollution caused by the US bomber jets.
She said: “The biggest problem affecting everyone is the noise. Regular patrons report hearing engine tests in the early hours, around 2 or 3 am. This disrupts many people, especially those working full-time. Having this so close is a real inconvenience.
“While plane spotter activity has lessened recently, it was quite hazardous at its peak, with families picnicking beside a main road or stepping out into darkness on a 60mph route. There is concern that such situations may recur if activity at Fairford increases.
“The situation surrounding the deployment is confusing. From my understanding, the use of our air bases should have been authorised for only 60 days from the initial deployment, after which it would require Congressional approval. It’s all quite unclear. Hopefully, matters will be resolved soon.”
Below is the detailed six-month timeline since US forces arrived at RAF Fairford: