A B‑52 Stratofortress bomber from the United States Air Force touched down at RAF Fairford on March 9, deploying a drag parachute as it landed on the base’s runway.

The landing is part of a broader U.S. military buildup in Europe as Washington expands operations connected to the ongoing conflict with Iran. The B-52 deployment follows earlier arrivals of B‑1B Lancer aircraft at the same base, increasing the number of American strategic bombers stationed in the United Kingdom. 

Video of the arrival shows the massive bomber deploying a drag parachute immediately after touchdown, a common technique used by large aircraft to slow down quickly on landing. The parachute increases aerodynamic drag, helping reduce braking distance for heavy bombers with long landing rolls.

The aircraft are part of the U.S. bomber force supporting Operation Epic Fury, the campaign targeting Iranian military infrastructure. The arrival of several B-52 bombers signals an expansion of long-range strike capabilities from Europe as tensions with Iran intensify. 

RAF Fairford has historically served as a key forward operating base for U.S. heavy bombers in Europe, allowing American forces to project power quickly into the Middle East and other strategic regions. With both B-52 and B-1 bombers now operating from the base, analysts say the deployment significantly increases the United States’ capacity for sustained long-range strike missions.