A dossier outlining the crippling impact closure of RAF Leuchars would have on Fife’s economy was sent to defence secretary Liam Fox on Friday.
The document states that a staggering £60 million could be lost to the region should the worst-case scenario play out.
It also warns that almost 2000 jobs would be put at risk.
First Minister Alex Salmond said he was “proud” to endorse the submission, saying RAF Leuchars is of “national importance”.
Fife Council leader Peter Grant visited the world-famous base and personally sent off the dossier.
He firmly believes it could play a pivotal role in securing the facility’s future.
“This economic impact assessment, which we have addressed directly to Dr Fox, brings together a lot of information we knew in our hearts and backs it up with hard facts and figures,” Mr Grant said.
“It clearly demonstrates that the economic benefits RAF Leuchars brings to Fife and beyond are very substantial.”
Mr Grant said local communities would be left devastated if the base closes.
“Of course the potential social impact is also huge,” he continued.
“A significant number of families associated with the base send their children to local primary schools and also on to Madras College.
“Meanwhile, closure would also have a massive impact on shops and the wider community.”BrightMr Grant still believes the well-established base can have a bright future and shudders to think of the alternative.
“The economy is already on its knees and to lose £60 million would obviously be devastating,” he continued.
“It would have a massive impact on the wider region.
“The average earnings of those based at RAF Leuchars is actually higher than the average for the area, which you would perhaps expect given the nature of the work.
“As such there is a danger that a significant number of high earners could just disappear.”
The council leader was at pains to stress it was not a case of pitching Leuchars against Lossiemouth, which also faces a fight to survive.
“The message from Fife and Scotland is clear and we stand shoulder to shoulder with colleagues in Moray,” Mr Grant said.
“We firmly believe that any cuts at either base are unthinkable.”
Carol Finnie, chairwoman of Leuchars community council, said closure would be “appalling”.
“This document we are sending today is very important,” she said.
“I believe Leuchars has a persuasive case and the impact assessment backs that up.
“We can only try our best-those at Lossiemouth are fighting as hard as they can and we are doing the same.
“However, it is not a case of one base against another as Scotland needs both.”
Local councillor Tim Brett agreed that the submission is “very strong”.
“It reflects the importance of the base for not only Leuchars, Gauldry and Balmullo but also the wider region of Fife and indeed the entire east of Scotland,” he said.
Mr Salmond said, “The case for retention of RAF Leuchars is compelling on defence, economic and social grounds.
“I hope that the UK Government and Ministry of Defence provide a positive and speedy response.”