Relentless vigil where every second counts

The air base’s radar provides coverage via a grid network which predicts the passage of satellites in orbit.

If any of the objects deviate from their anticipated trajectory, then a new course is plotted.

However, if an unidentified object cannot be accounted for, the air base is scrambled for what is simple known as a “missile event”.

Instances are rare and number on average only about half a dozen each year. Staff carry out drills and training exercises for the vast bulk of the time to ensure they are ready for an actual incident.

When a missile event is logged, the commander in charge of the five-strong team overseeing the space operations room has less than 60 seconds to ascertain if all equipment is working correctly and there is a valid threat.

The much publicised four-minute warning is a misnomer - the 60-second checks are carried out before the crew commander simultaneously notifies both the US and UK authorities if the incident is validated. The decision to launch a counter-attack is then taken far higher up the chain of command – the role of RAF Fylingdales is simply to provide a warning.

During the 1960s, up to 1,100 staff were employed on the air base, although the workforce has reduced to just 360 amid technological advancements and the need to reduce running costs.

A single US officer is stationed at RAF Fylingdales to ensure the necessary protocols are followed and to liaise with British counterparts.

The air base is seen as a key employer in North Yorkshire’s economy, providing a highly-trained and skilled workforce in a rural area that would otherwise be largely reliant on the relatively poorly paid agriculture and tourism sectors.

The majority of the workforce live within a 30-mile radius of the base and commute in. Officers, including the station’s commander, Wing Commander Rayna Owens, have accommodation in nearby Whitby. There are also living quarters on the site of RAF Fylingdales which underwent a £12.5m upgrade before being officially opened by Princess Anne in October 2010.

Unlike North Yorkshire’s other controversial air base, RAF Menwith Hill near Harrogate, RAF Fylingdales is British run, albeit using US equipment. The two stations may attract similar criticism, but their roles are very distinct and separate – RAF Fylingdales is the “eyes” while RAF Menwith Hill is the “ears” for surveillance.