UK fighter jets to help defend Saudi Arabia against Houthi attacks
(Alliance News) - British fighter jets will help defend Saudi Arabia against "absolutely despicable" attacks from Houthi rebels, Defence Secretary Wes Streeting has said.
RAF Typhoons will fly defensive missions to help protect Saudi cities and critical infrastructure from strikes from the Iran-backed militant group, as the UK extends its military support to the kingdom.
The UK will also send military advisers and an Atlas A400M military transport aircraft to help move equipment.
Streeting said: "The continuing attacks from the Houthis on our ally Saudi Arabia are absolutely despicable. The targeting of the airport in Riyadh in particular shows the lengths the Houthis are going to escalate the situation in the region.
"That's why today I have approved further UK military support. RAF Typhoons will fly defensive air missions to help protect Saudi airspace from drones and missiles. This builds on the UK equipment and personnel we already have in the country to defend against Houthi air attacks."
Prime Minister Andy Burnham last month announced that British planes would provide "defensive" air-to-air refuelling for Saudi jets.
The Iran-backed Houthis have secured a stranglehold over the Bab al-Mandab strait, a maritime chokepoint on the Red Sea vital for traffic heading to Europe through the Suez Canal.
The Saudis have been targeting the Houthis, while the Yemeni group has been firing missiles at the oil-rich kingdom.
By Sophie Wingate, Press Association Deputy Political Editor
Press Association: News
source: PA
Copyright 2026 Alliance News Ltd. All Rights Reserved.
The articles, information, and content displayed on this webpage may include materials prepared and provided by third parties. Such third-party content is offered for informational purposes only and is not endorsed, reviewed, or verified by Morningstar.
Morningstar makes no representations or warranties regarding the accuracy, completeness, timeliness, or reliability of any third-party content displayed on this site. The views and opinions expressed in third-party content are those of the respective authors and do not necessarily reflect the views of Morningstar, its affiliates, or employees.
Morningstar is not responsible for any errors, omissions, or delays in this content, nor for any actions taken in reliance thereon. Users are advised to exercise their own judgment and seek independent financial advice before making any decisions based on such content. The third-party providers of this content are not affiliated with Morningstar, and their inclusion on this site does not imply any form of partnership, agency, or endorsement.
Popular
2 Undervalued Stocks to Buy With Long-Term Growth Ahead
The Market May Be Too Pessimistic About This 4-Star Dividend Stock
4 Stocks to Buy for the Long-Term While They’re Still Undervalued
Why This Vanguard ETF Is One of the Best
United States