UK extends military support in Middle East, deploys air defence systems

The United Kingdom has deployed additional troops and the Sky Sabre air defence missile system to the Middle East to support allies in the face of escalating threats from Iran, UK Defence Secretary John Healey confirmed.

The deployment includes Sky Sabre systems in Saudi Arabia, additional air defence teams and equipment in Bahrain and Kuwait, and an extension of UK Typhoon fighter jet operations in Qatar. Reports indicate the UK’s Lightweight Multirole Launcher has already arrived in Bahrain, LBC reports.

“My message to Gulf partners is: Britain’s best will help you defend your skies,” Healey said. He emphasized that the deployments are intended for defensive purposes only, amid ongoing Iranian missile attacks in the region.

The Sky Sabre system, composed of radars, a control node, and missile launchers, is capable of intercepting both munitions and aircraft, the Ministry of Defence confirmed.

Healey, speaking during a visit to UK Armed Forces at Dukhan air base, said: “Iran’s aggressive attacks continue to threaten our allies and interests in the Middle East. That’s why the UK has been flying defensive missions since day one of this conflict to protect British interests and allies – and today we’re delivering further support by extending our UK jets in Qatar and deploying extra air defence teams and systems to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, Bahrain and Kuwait.”

He also paid tribute to the “heroic efforts” of Gulf partners, reiterating the UK’s commitment to long-term allies and its push for a swift resolution to the ongoing conflict.

Prime Minister Keir Starmer previously confirmed that UK forces would not be deployed on the ground, as tensions in the region remain high.

By Vafa Guliyeva