Britain’s Defense Ministry has confirmed that its Royal Air Force (RAF) Typhoon and F-35 fighter planes are continuing night-time security missions over Qatar, Jordan, Bahrain and the UAE. In view of the increasing drone and missile threats from Iran, Britain has deployed more jets in this region than in the last 15 years. British pilots have flown more than 1,150 hours in the skies over the Middle East since the start of the operation, protecting their allies and the people there.
British Army’s action and updates so far
Britain has reported that its pilots and defense systems have successfully shot down about 50 Iranian drones so far. This mission is being conducted mainly in those areas where the risk of missile or drone attacks is high. The government has informed Parliament that short-range air defense systems have been rapidly deployed to Bahrain and Rapid Sentry systems to Kuwait to intercept attacks on the ground.
Gunners of the RAF Regiment have achieved ‘Ace’ status for the first time, having single-handedly shot down more than 5 drones. British aircraft are also conducting night surveillance over Cyprus and Jordan. According to Defense Secretary John Healey, this step has been taken to protect allies under international law. The Royal Navy’s HMS Dragon ship has also reached the eastern Mediterranean.
Its impact on migrants living in Gulf countries
A large number of Indians and other expatriates live in countries like Bahrain, UAE and Qatar. This security being provided by Britain and its allies is a matter of relief for the common people living in these countries. When the skies are safe, international flights and trade operate without interruption. This benefits those who frequently travel between India and the Gulf countries for work or holidays.
Country Security Measures and Aircraft Bahrain F-35 jets, short-range defense and missile systems Kuwait Rapid Sentry Air Defense System deployment Qatar and UAE Typhoon fighter aircraft and patrol missions Jordan Night-time air defense and surveillance
