Cyprus RAF base offered in support of French
RAF Akrotiri in Cyprus has been offered in support of French operations against ISIL.
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As an act of solidarity with the French Armed Forces, Prime Minister David Cameron has offered President Francois Hollande the use of RAF Akrotiri in support of the French aircraft carrier Charles de Gaulle as an emergency diversion airfield if required.
Under this agreement the French will not be launching strikes from RAF Akrotiri against ISIL but it could be used if a diversionary runway is required for any reason. This offer has been strongly supported by UK, Cypriot and French governments.
Further support to the French in its campaign against ISIL in both Syria and Iraq has also been offered, including assistance with air-to-air refuelling.
Defence Secretary Michael Fallon said:
This offer is another demonstration of our solidarity with our French allies. It is right that we do all we can to help them hit ISIL harder. Meanwhile, we will continue to strike this vile organisation in Iraq and build the case for extending those strikes to Syria.