UK deploys air defences across Gulf as conflict intensifies

Defence affairs - Def-Geopolitics

The UK is expanding its air defence footprint across the Middle East, deploying additional systems and extending fast jet operations as the conflict with Iran enters its second month.

Defence Secretary John Healey confirmed a series of new deployments during a visit to Saudi Arabia, Qatar and Bahrain, including the dispatch of the Sky Sabre air defence system to Saudi Arabia, where it will be integrated into wider regional networks.

“Iran’s aggressive attacks continue to threaten our allies and interests in the Middle East,” Healey said, adding that the UK is “delivering further support by extending our UK jets in Qatar and deploying extra air defence teams and systems.”

A Royal Artillery battery, alongside radar, control and launcher elements, is expected to deploy to Saudi Arabia within days, following a reconnaissance mission to prepare for integration with existing air defence systems. Elsewhere, the UK’s Lightweight Multirole Missile system has been deployed to Bahrain, supported by British personnel to assist with integration, while Rapid Sentry ground-based air defence and the RAF’s ORCUS counter-drone system are now operating in Kuwait.

The UK has also extended the deployment of Typhoon fighter jets in Qatar, where the joint UK-Qatar squadron has been flying defensive missions since the start of the conflict. Aircraft have been operating across Qatar, Bahrain, Jordan and the UAE, contributing to efforts to counter incoming threats.UK defence updates

Healey said UK aircraft and crews have now flown more than 1,280 hours on defensive operations, protecting British nationals, bases and regional partners.