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UK to deploy RAF fighter jets for Saudi Arabia defence

Summarised from 2 outlets · Updated 20 Oct, 13:32 · Archive

Britain will fly Royal Air Force Typhoon fighter jets on defensive missions to protect Saudi airspace from Houthi attacks.

Britain is expanding military support for Saudi Arabia by deploying Royal Air Force Typhoon fighter jets to conduct defensive air patrols over the kingdom. The aircraft will protect Saudi cities and critical infrastructure from Houthi aerial attacks, operating only in a defensive role and not conducting offensive strikes against the Iran-aligned Houthis.

Defence Secretary Wes Streeting approved the additional support on Tuesday following a request from Saudi Arabia's government. He said the Houthis' continuing attacks on Saudi Arabia are 'absolutely despicable', citing the targeting of Riyadh airport as evidence of escalation. The decision expands assistance announced in September, which included an RAF Voyager air-to-air refuelling aircraft but not fighter jets. Britain will also deploy an Atlas A400M transport aircraft and military advisers.

Britain says Houthi attacks threaten regional stability and risk disrupting energy supplies and trade routes. Houthi attacks against Saudi oil facilities and other infrastructure have intensified in recent weeks as the conflict in Yemen has escalated. Authorities in Yemen reported that a Houthi strike on Monday against a training camp for Saudi-backed government security forces killed 58 people.

UK to deploy RAF fighter jets for Saudi Arabia defence
Image: The West Australian

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In this story: United Kingdom · Saudi Arabia · Houthis · Royal Air Force · Yemen · Wes Streeting

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