UK to send fighter jets to defend Saudi Arabia from Houthi attacks
Britain will deploy RAF Typhoon fighters to Saudi Arabia to shoot down missiles and drones launched by Yemen's Houthis. It is the most significant military mission approved by Prime Minister Andy Burnham.
The Royal Air Force (RAF) will send Typhoon fighter jets to Saudi Arabia to defend its cities and critical infrastructure against attacks by Yemen's Houthis, an Iran-aligned armed movement. The mission is the most significant military operation approved by UK Prime Minister Andy Burnham, and it reflects growing involvement by Western allies in a conflict that has been escalating since September.
What the operation involves
RAF pilots will attempt to shoot down Houthi missiles and drones aimed at Saudi airports and oil facilities. Alongside the fighters, Britain will provide an Atlas A400M transport aircraft, which can carry heavy equipment, as well as military advisers.
The UK had already committed to providing air-to-air refuelling for Saudi fighter jets using an RAF Voyager aircraft.
How the conflict developed
The Houthi offensive in Yemen began in September and has gradually grown into a deadly regional conflict. The Houthis are attacking Saudi Arabia, which backs Yemen's officially recognised government.
Earlier this month, a missile struck King Khalid international airport in Riyadh, killing 13 people. It was the deadliest incident of a war that has claimed 19 lives in Saudi Arabia in total.
Further details of the operation are expected to be given to the UK parliament in a written statement shortly. The story is being updated.
