A large fire broke out at a UK military air base used by the United States for strikes against Iran in the early hours of this morning, prompting authorities to urge residents to close their windows. The blaze tore through RAF Fairford in Gloucestershire, with videos showing thick black smoke billowing above the flames.
Firefighting Response
Fire crews rushed to the base, which is operated by the US Air Force, at 1:52 AM to battle the fire, which has now been brought under control. The Ministry of Defence (MoD) stated that the fire is believed to have started accidentally after wiring ignited in an old disused building, reportedly the base's commissary. No injuries or damage to aircraft were reported, and no RAF personnel were involved in fighting the fire, the MoD added.
Gloucestershire Fire and Rescue Service (GFRS) reported that flames engulfed a single-storey industrial storage building but were safely contained. Firefighters remain at the scene this morning as a precaution to ensure no further fires reignite. A fire investigation has been launched, but GFRS indicated that the cause is believed to be accidental.
Official Statements
A GFRS spokesperson said: 'We were called at 1:52 AM to reports of a fire at RAF Fairford. Fire engines from Gloucestershire Fire and Rescue Service attended, supported by neighbouring services. The fire involved a single-storey industrial storage building. It was brought under control safely with no casualties. Crews remain on site as a precaution. The investigation suggests the cause was accidental.'
RAF Fairford's Role
RAF Fairford has hosted US Air Force planes and personnel since 2019 and has been used by US forces for operations in Iran. It is one of two European airfields designed for heavy bombers and routinely supports US Bomber Task Force operations. All three US long-range bombers—the B-1 Lancer, B-2 Spirit, and B-52 Stratofortress—can be stationed there.
Notable uses include deployments for the first Gulf War in 1991, the NATO bombing of Yugoslavia in 1999, the 2003 Iraq War, and this year's Iran War. The US Military has been approached for comment.
