US military deploys bunker-busting bombs to UK airbase amid escalating tensions with Iran

US Forces Deploy to RAF Fairford, UK Base Used for Bombing Campaign Against Iran

Three US B-1B Lancer bombers have landed at RAF Fairford in the United Kingdom. The aircraft are believed to be part of a strike mission against Iran, marking what appears to be the first American operation from a British base during the ongoing conflict.

Ground crews at RAF Fairford have been loading bunker-busting bombs onto US planes, fitted with JDAM guidance kits. These bombs are designed for precision-guided strikes and can be programmed with target coordinates. The UK military has joined operations to intercept Iranian drones and missile strikes in the Middle East, deploying additional assets to the eastern Mediterranean.

In February, the US and Israel launched a joint attack on Iran. Since then, the UK has been involved in the conflict, initially refusing US permission to use its bases for attacks on Iran. However, Prime Minister Keir Starmer later approved a request from the US to use British facilities for “defensive purposes” after a drone struck a British military base on Cyprus.

The latest deployment at RAF Fairford highlights the increasing role of British facilities in US strategic bombing operations. The B-1B Lancer is a long-range strategic bomber capable of carrying large conventional payloads. Government officials have stated that British forces have conducted “defensive military operations” from day one of the war on Iran.

Public opinion on the conflict remains divided, with polls indicating that only 10% of the public strongly supports military action against Iran and 61% believe the reasons for US attacks remain unclear.

Source: Al Jazeera