US strategic bombers arrive in UK as tensions with Iran escalate

WEB DESK: A fleet of American strategic bombers has arrived at RAF Fairford in Gloucestershire, signalling a notable escalation in Britain’s role in the intensifying confrontation with Iran.

The deployment includes B-1B Lancer and B-52H Stratofortress aircraft, which reportedly landed earlier this week under heavy cloud over the Cotswolds.

According to defence sources and aviation trackers, at least eight B-1B Lancers and three B-52H bombers are now stationed at the base as part of a United States mission reportedly codenamed “Operation Epic Fury”, aimed at targeting Iran’s ballistic missile capabilities.

Stationing the aircraft at RAF Fairford significantly reduces flight times to the Middle East, eliminating the need for the lengthy 30-hour return missions previously flown from the continental United States.

Meanwhile, Keir Starmer authorised the move after days of political tension, granting Washington permission to launch what Downing Street described as “specific and limited defensive” strikes from British territory, including the Indian Ocean base of Diego Garcia.

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The decision marks a shift from Starmer’s earlier refusal to participate in the initial phase of the campaign on February 28, a stance that had triggered public disagreement with Donald Trump.

The British government’s position hardened after an Iranian drone strike narrowly missed British personnel at RAF Akrotiri.

Addressing the House of Commons, Starmer said the United Kingdom would not take part in offensive operations but would support the collective self-defence of its allies, adding that protecting British lives and preventing missile attacks remained his foremost priority.