UK: We Plan to Conduct Defensive Missions in Saudi Airspace

The UK Ministry of Defence announced on Tuesday that London will deploy Royal Air Force Typhoon fighter jets to carry out defensive missions aimed at protecting Saudi cities and critical infrastructure from Houthi aerial attacks.

The ministry stated that the aircraft would perform only defensive roles and would not participate in offensive strikes against the Iran-aligned Houthis, whose attacks Britain says threaten regional stability and could disrupt energy supplies and trade routes.

Defence Secretary Wes Streeting said in a statement, “The ongoing Houthi attacks on our ally Saudi Arabia are deeply shocking. The targeting of Riyadh airport in particular shows how far the Houthis are prepared to escalate tensions in the region.”

He added, “For this reason, I have approved additional British military support today. Royal Air Force Typhoon fighters will carry out defensive air missions to help protect Saudi airspace from drones and missiles.”

This additional support comes in response to a request from the Saudi government, following earlier remarks by British Prime Minister Andy Burnham earlier this month that Britain was ready to consider such a request.

The UK will also deploy an Airbus A400M military transport aircraft and military advisers, expanding on assistance announced in September that included Royal Air Force Voyager aerial refueling tankers but did not include fighter jets.

The Houthis have intensified attacks on Saudi oil facilities and other infrastructure in recent weeks amid escalating conflict in Yemen.