A US spy plane has been spotted at a UK airbase - amid global tensions around Venezuela, Russia and Greenland.

The 99th Reconnaissance Squadron were seen at RAF Fairford in Gloucestershire today (Weds).

The squadron is equipped with the Lockheed U-2 Dragon Lady reconnaissance aircraft.

The unit

is responsible for providing critical intelligence for use by the highest levels of the US government.

The current mission statement of the 99th Reconnaissance Squadron is "to deploy and employ warrior Airmen and execute effective and sustained U-2 operations globally in support of National Objectives."

The 501st Combat Support Wing posted on Facebook:

''Snow flurries? No worries.

''We caught members of the 99th Expeditionary Reconnaissance Squadron hard at work this morning while snow touched down at RAF Fairford. Proof that no matter the weather we keep it moving at the 501st Combat Support Wing!.''

Fairford has long hosted United States Air Force personnel but onlookers say the last few days has seen a drastic surge in activity.

Images taken at the base on Monday showed a number of US Air Force C-17 aircraft - typically used for heavy transport of equipment and personnel.

The MOD said in a statement on Monday "We wouldn't comment on the operational activity of other nations."

It is not clear what the planes were in the UK.

There are rumours of a US takeover of Greenland and American forces planning to intercept an oil tanker that historically carried Venezuelan crude oil.