Prime Minister Andy Burnham has ordered the Royal Air Force to deploy Typhoon fighter jets to Saudi Arabia. This operation, the most significant military mission signed off by the prime minister, comes as western allies increase intervention following a spike in attacks by the Iran-backed Houthi militia against Saudi airports and oil facilities.
The UK Ministry of Defense stated that the RAF Typhoon jets will conduct defensive counter-air operations over the country. These missions are designed to protect Saudi cities, civilian populations, and critical national infrastructure from aerial attack by attempting to shoot down Houthi missiles and drones.
The UK government emphasized that the deployed warplanes will not be used to attack the Iran-aligned group and will not engage in offensive strikes. As part of the additional defensive military support, the UK will also send military advisers to support Saudi staff officers.