Spain and France Lose Kyrgyz Air Base

Spain and France have left an air base in Kyrgyzstan used for missions to Afghanistan, following permission to use the base being withdrawn.

Spanish forces have temporarily shifted two Hercules C-130 aircraft and personnel from the Manas Air Base to an Afghan base, while French supply aircraft and personnel have been shifted to a Tajik base.

The Manas base was a major refuelling point for aircraft supplying Nato forces in Afghanistan.

Kyrgyzstan has cancelled Spain and France's right to use the base. First permission was granted in March 2009.

The country previously refused use of the base to the US, but later agreed after the US showed interest in paying more for the access.