Cryptic crossword clue
Controls around southern air bases

The most common and most likely answer to this crossword clue is the 12 letter word CORNERSTONES

I've seen this crossword clue in The Times
C
O
R
N
E
R
S
T
O
N
E
S

Buddy explains!

The straight part
We know that "bases" is the straight/definition part of the clue. The straight part is often a synonym or definition, in this case bases = cornerstones.
The cryptic/wordplay part
In cryptic crossword there's often an wordplay/cryptic part as well.
This part involves a more complex hint, such as an anagram, homophone, hidden word, etc.
Sadly, We don't have an explanation for this specific crossword clue yet.

What does CORNERSTONES mean?

CORNERSTONES noun
  1. A stone forming the base at the corner of a building.
  2. Such a stone used ceremonially, often inscribed with the architect's and owner's names, dates and other details.
  3. That which is prominent, fundamental, noteworthy, or central.

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