More than 20,000 people have joined campaign groups established in a bid to save RAF Leuchars from closure.
Over 17,000 have signed up to a Facebook page to support the base, while a number of online petitions have together gathered in excess of 3000 names.
Politicians from all parties have also vowed to do all in their power to help the facility, which employs 1560 service personnel and 220 civilian staff.
Public anger regarding potential closure is clear to see on iPetitions, which has garnered over 1450 signatures.
Peter Taylor wrote, “The government should have serious thoughts about closing any air base in Scotland.
“We all know in this day and age of high technology that every second counts the farther our aircraft have to come the less chance we have of defence.”
Ros Berry served at RAF Leuchars with her husband and has fond memories of it.
She also fears for the future of the world-famous airshow should the axe fall.
Mrs Berry said, “Why are we getting hit so hard in Scotland?”‘Strength of feeling’Local businessman John Anderson said, “Its loss would have an extremely adverse effect on my business and those of many other small traders.”
Among others campaigning against closure are countless young cadets, who called facilities at the base “amazing.”
Mid-Scotland and Fife MSP Murdo Fraser was delighted to learn so many people had signed up.
“It is very welcome news that there are now over 20,000 signatures of support for RAF Leuchars,” he told The Courier.
“This demonstrates to the Ministry of Defence the strong feeling and affection for the base and its importance to Scotland and to the United Kingdom.
Mr Fraser pledged to continue to “stand up” for the base.
North East Fife MSP Iain Smith also paid tribute to all of those who have signed up thus far and said the strength of feeling could not be ignored.
He said, “The significant number of signatories opposing the closure of RAF Leuchars is testament to the strength of feeling throughout the country and serves to highlight the high regard with which it is held.”