Swinney seeks UK meeting over US military use of Prestwick Airport

"First Minister John Swinney is seeking a meeting with the UK government over American military use of Prestwick Airport amid calls for the US Air Force to be banned from the site. It comes as the BBC has documented some American military planes stopping over at the Scottish government-owned airport, on their way to support the US-Israeli airstrikes against Iran."

"Using publicly available flight logs, BBC Scotland has now found evidence that planes that have passed through Prestwick in recent weeks are directly involved in supporting the US military action in the Middle East. Three Boeing KC-135 Stratotankers stopped off at Prestwick Airport last month on the way to their final destination in Israel. From there, they have flown dozens of missions since the start of Operation Epic Fury."

"Swinney said his government would 'explore' and 'consider' a ban if it was confirmed the planes were involved in the airstrikes. A spokesperson said Swinney had asked for clarity that US planes were not part of offensive operations, and he also wanted a meeting with the cabinet office to discuss the matter."

First Minister John Swinney is requesting a meeting with the UK government regarding American military aircraft operations at Scottish government-owned Prestwick Airport. The Scottish Greens have called for a ban on US planes, accusing the government of inaction. BBC Scotland has documented evidence that Boeing KC-135 Stratotankers stopped at Prestwick last month en route to Israel, subsequently flying dozens of missions supporting US-Israeli airstrikes against Iran. Swinney stated his government would explore and consider a ban if confirmed the planes were involved in offensive operations. Defence analysts confirm these refuelling tankers play a crucial role in extending strike aircraft range and operational capability during military missions.

Read at www.bbc.com