For 75 years, a piece of America has nestled on the edge of a small market town in Suffolk. RAF Mildenhall, which began as a British bomber station in the 1930s, has evolved into a linchpin of US military operations in Europe since 1951. Its significance was thrust into the spotlight this week when reports emerged that almost all aircraft had departed the base amid an alleged threat from Iran.
From British Bombers to American Hub
Opened officially by King George V in October 1934, RAF Mildenhall initially served as a bomber station and played a vital role during World War Two. Within hours of the declaration of war in 1939, bombers took off from its runways. Throughout the conflict, aircraft such as Lancaster, Stirling, and Wellington bombers flew from the base, participating in critical operations including early night bombings of Germany, raids on Cologne, and the D-Day invasion.
In 1951, the US Air Force took over the base, operating B-29 and B-50 bombers. Since then, it has become a cornerstone of American air power in Europe. Today, the base is home to the 100th Air Refuelling Wing, the only permanent US air refuelling wing on the continent. It hosts a fleet of KC-135 Stratotankers, CV-22 Ospreys, RC-135 Rivet Joint reconnaissance aircraft, and MC-130J Commando II special operations planes.
Strategic Significance
Located about 80 miles north of London, RAF Mildenhall is operated by the US Air Force but remains owned by the UK Ministry of Defence. Around 3,000 military personnel are stationed there. The base serves as a vital refuelling and maintenance hub, and has been used as a staging area for aircraft and materials bound for the Middle East. Air refuelling tankers were forward deployed to the region during operations against Iran.
The base has also played a role in presidential travel, often used as a refuelling stop for Air Force One during UK visits. Its proximity to RAF Lakenheath, home to the 48th Fighter Wing operating F-15 and F-35 jets, further enhances its strategic value.
Recent Developments and Threats
The reported departure of aircraft from RAF Mildenhall on Monday has raised questions about security. The Ministry of Defence and US Air Force have not confirmed the reason for the move. This incident follows a series of security concerns, including a suspected Iran-linked plot targeting RAF Fairford in September and the spotting of drones over RAF Lakenheath, RAF Mildenhall, and RAF Feltwell in 2024. An investigation by the International Institute for Strategic Studies suggested the drones were likely launched from Russian-linked commercial vessels in the North Sea.
In 2020, the US Air Force reversed a decision that would have seen RAF Mildenhall close in 2027, underscoring its continued importance to operational efficiency. As aviation enthusiasts continue to flock to its gates, the base remains a symbol of the enduring military partnership between the UK and the US.
