There has been a big increase in the number of U.S. military aircraft over-flying Mallorca operating from U.S. bases on the mainland. The aircraft involve are mostly tanker and transport planes usually heading from bases on the mainland to Italy and further afield.
Over the weekend a SAF KC-46A Pegasus refuelling arcraft flew close to Mallorca durig a mission over the Mediterranean. Earlier last week a C-40A Clipper transport plane followed a route which brought it into Mallorca airspace.
Mallorca is growing in strategic value both for the U.S. military and other NATO countries. Plans to establish a missile storage area at the Son San Juan military base in Palma have been shelved after a public outcry but the Spanish Air Force is keen to develop the base.
There have been reports that Spanish Air Force drones could be based in Palma although this has not been officially confirmed.
Palma is also a popular port with the U.S. Navy. Late last year the giant aircraft carrier, Gerald Ford, visited Palma.