How did Mildenhall become crucial to the US Air Force?
Summary
RAF Mildenhall in Suffolk has supported U.S. Air Force operations in Europe since 1951, after serving as a British bomber base during World War II. It now focuses mainly on air refuelling and maintenance, and the U.S. reversed a 2020 decision to close it in 2027.Key Facts
- RAF Mildenhall opened as a British bomber station in 1934.
- The base supported World War II operations, including bombing missions over Germany and the D-Day campaign.
- The U.S. Air Force took over the base in 1951.
- About 3,000 military personnel are stationed at RAF Mildenhall.
- The base is home to the 100th Air Refuelling Wing, the only permanent U.S. air refuelling wing in Europe.
- Aircraft based there include KC-135 tankers, CV-22 Ospreys, RC-135 reconnaissance aircraft and MC-130J transport aircraft.
- The base has served as a staging area for aircraft and supplies bound for the Middle East and as a refuelling stop for presidential flights.
- The MoD and U.S. Air Force have not confirmed why aircraft reportedly left the base amid claims of an Iran-related threat.
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