UK forces have stepped up counter-drone operations across the Middle East, with ground-based units intercepting Iranian unmanned aerial vehicles and additional air defense systems deployed to bolster regional security, according to an update from the UK Ministry of Defence.
A British counter-drone unit operating in a high-threat environment shot down multiple Iranian drones over successive nights, including a confirmed engagement on March 25. The previous day, UK troops intercepted 14 kamikaze drones in a single night, marking the highest number downed by UK forces in one engagement to date.
The increase in activity comes alongside sustained air operations by the Royal Air Force. Eurofighter Typhoon and F-35 Lightning II aircraft continue to fly defensive missions over Cyprus, Jordan, Qatar and Bahrain. UK pilots have logged more than 850 flying hours in the region since the start of the current conflict, the ministry said.
On the ground, the UK has reinforced its air defense posture with the deployment of Sky Sabre systems to Cyprus. Additional capabilities include Rapid Sentry systems sent to Kuwait and Lightweight Multiple Launchers scheduled for deployment to Bahrain. Meanwhile, the HMS Dragon has arrived in the eastern Mediterranean to integrate with allied air and missile defense efforts.
The UK is also working with international partners to safeguard maritime traffic through the Strait of Hormuz, a critical chokepoint for global energy supplies. Senior military officials are engaging with the merchant shipping industry as part of efforts to manage risks to vessels operating in the area.
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Post Image – A Merlin prepares to take off on a night sortie from RAF Akrotiri (Post Image Credit: UK MoD
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