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The British government has deployed Typhoon and F-35 fighter jets to the Middle East overnight as part of what the Ministry of Defence (MoD) describes as a “defensive operation to protect British interests and allies.”
The aircraft have been dispatched to key bases in Cyprus, the United Arab Emirates, Qatar, Bahrain, and Jordan in response to escalating regional tensions following repeated Iranian missile and drone attacks.
Earlier, service personnel were seen loading munitions onto a US B-1 bomber at RAF Fairford in Gloucestershire. The UK has granted US forces permission to use this base under the condition that missions conducted are strictly defensive and focus on targeting Iranian missile sites.
Defence Secretary John Healey emphasised that the deployment is a measured response to ongoing threats in the Gulf and the wider Middle East. “These are defensive operations to protect British personnel, assets, and allies,” he stated.
In addition to the fighter jets, the MoD has enhanced air defence capabilities in the region by deploying Wildcat helicopters and integrated air defence systems since January. Six F-35B Lightning II jets are currently stationed at RAF Akrotiri in Cyprus, while four Typhoons are based in Qatar, ready to respond to any regional escalation.
This deployment comes amid heightened concerns regarding Iran’s continued blockade of the Strait of Hormuz, attacks on shipping, and threats against allied military forces.
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