A large US bomber that can carry 24 missiles has landed in the UK after the US Secretary of War warned of an "escalation" of attacks on Iran.
The B-1 Lancer, about 44.5 meters long, has a wingspan of about 41.7 meters, weighs 86 tons and is the US Air Force's fastest bomber, according to Boeing, reaching speeds of over 900 miles per hour (about 1,450 km/h).
"The Bone" has advanced radar and GPS systems to hit targets, as well as electronic signal-blocking devices (jammers), radar warnings and a deception system to avoid detection by the enemy, writes skynews.
The B-1, which has been used in Syria, Libya, Afghanistan and Iraq, is operated by a crew of four and can carry up to 34 tons of weapons and equipment.
A bomber was photographed arriving at RAF Fairford air base in Gloucestershire on Friday, after British Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer gave the US permission to carry out defensive strikes on Iranian missile facilities from British bases.
Western officials confirmed on Wednesday that US aircraft were expected to arrive at the base in the coming days.
Protests are expected this afternoon at RAF Fairford to oppose any use of the base by US bombers. /Telegraph/
