As jets from RAF Leuchars flew to Libya, campaigners fighting for the future of the closure-threatened base took their case direct to Number 10 Downing Street.
The axe hangs over the facility as the coalition government aims to make multi-billion-pound savings to its defence budget.
However, campaigners insist there is a “compelling” case to retain the Fife base. They were in London on Monday in a bid to leave Prime Minister David Cameron in absolutely no doubt as to the devastating impact closure would have.
Members of the Save RAF Leuchars task force handed over a petition bearing 7000 signatures to officials at Number 10.
When added to those signing up on Facebook, a total of more than 30,000 have outlined their opposition to closure.
Among those in London was North East Fife MP Sir Menzies Campbell.
“Today’s presentation of a petition at Number 10 Downing Street to the Prime Minister is yet another step in the continuing campaign for the retention of RAF Leuchars,” he said.
“Ministers continue to assure us that no decision has been taken and there will be no announcement until after the Scottish Parliamentary elections.
“We shall take every opportunity to press the case for Leuchars, both strategically and economically, meantime,” Sir Menzies added.
“We were glad to be joined today by members of Leuchars Task Force and of the local community.”
North East Fife MSP Iain Smith said, “This petition shows the overwhelming support there is in the local community for RAF Leuchars to remain.
“Over 30,000 people have given their backing to the campaign to save the base.
“Ministers should be under no illusion about the significant contribution that RAF Leuchars makes to the local economy and to the local community.”
Howe of Fife and Tay Coast councillor David MacDiarmid was also in London with the Leuchars task force. He said it had been a hugely important day for the campaign.
“The case for Leuchars is simply overwhelming,” he told The Courier.
“Closure would have a massive impact both in Fife and further afield.
“I once worked as an electrician at RAF Leuchars so I know just how important the base is for the area.
“The RAF has been in Leuchars for something like 90 years and is synonymous with the area,” he added.
“It deserves better than facing closure just by someone in the MoD ticking a box.
“The people of Fife will not stand by and accept that.”