Nuclear weapons expected at RAF Lakenheath
‘People in the region need to be told what is happening.’
The RAF base at Lakenheath is preparing to receive nuclear weapons, according to the Lakenheath Alliance for Peace (LAP).
On 17 July, a Notice of Aviation (NOTAM) was issued restricting flights in the area for a high priority C-17 flight. C-17 planes can be used to transport (but not fire) nuclear warheads.
According to Lesley Grahame of LAP, the NOTAM and its mid-air refuelling make it unusual, and a probable signal of ‘the expected arrival of weapons of mass destruction’.
‘People in the region need to be told what is happening but instead the government will neither confirm nor deny the presence of nuclear weapons at Lakenheath, and has exempted [the Unites States Air Force] from nuclear safety laws, including the need to disclose potential radiation hazards.
‘This shows a government riding roughshod over its own laws and its duty of care to its citizens.’
LAP holds a monthly vigil for peace as ‘a small gesture of resistance’, said Lesley. This takes place 12-2pm on Saturdays at the main gate on the A1065.
