UK to Deploy Fighter Jets to Saudi Arabia Amid Houthi Missile and Drone Threats

Britain announced Tuesday that it will deploy fighter jets to Saudi Arabia to protect the kingdom against missile and drone attacks by the Houthis in Yemen, according to a report by Israel's Channel 14.

British Defense Secretary Wes Streeting said the aircraft would conduct defensive air patrols over Saudi territory, protecting major cities and critical infrastructure from aerial threats.

"The aircraft will carry out air defense missions over Saudi Arabia, patrolling the kingdom's airspace to protect its cities and vital infrastructure from aerial attacks," Streeting said. He emphasized that the British fighter jets would not conduct offensive strikes against the Houthi terrorist organization in Yemen.

Britain Expands Military Support for Saudi Arabia

The British defense secretary added that the military would also deploy a heavy transport aircraft and military advisers to work alongside Saudi forces.

In addition, Britain has extended its aerial refueling operation in Saudi Arabia for another 90 days. A Royal Air Force tanker aircraft will continue providing midair refueling to Saudi aircraft conducting operations against the Houthis.

British Prime Minister Andy Burnham confirmed the deployment of the refueling aircraft during an address to the House of Commons, declaring that the United Kingdom would "continue to stand alongside Saudi Arabia."