Why is RAF Fairford reducing to squadron status and what is the rationale?
USAF wide budgetary constraints require all USAFE units to maximize efficiencies and analyze all areas of operations for savings. As a standby base, RAF Fairford can continue to meet its mission as a squadron. How will the base respond to future operational or training deployments without the infrastructure, support and personnel currently in place? USAFE and the 501st CSW are developing detailed plans that will allow time phased reinforcement of personnel and equipment remaining in place at Fairford. Utilizing forces from other USAFE bases, RAF Fairford will quickly be able to receive operational units to conduct offensive operations. Is this a phased reduction ahead of full closure and what assurances can the United States give of the long term future? There are no plans to close RAF Fairford. Force structure and basing throughout the US Air Force, and the Royal Air Force for that matter, are constantly reviewed for suitability. These analyses are valid so long as the planning assump
