UK to fly RAF Typhoon defensive missions to protect Saudi Arabia from Houthi attacks

The UK Ministry of Defence said on Tuesday that RAF Typhoon fighter jets will fly defensive counter-air missions to support the protection of Saudi cities and critical national infrastructure against aerial attack. The Guardian, Al Jazeera, SCMP, Le Monde, Reuters and AP reported the announcement. "These aircraft will operate in a defensive role and will not conduct offensive strikes against the Houthis," the ministry said in a statement quoted by The Guardian.

Defence Secretary Wes Streeting said he had approved further UK military support. Al Jazeera quoted him as saying: "The continuing attacks from the Houthis on our ally Saudi Arabia are absolutely despicable." The package also extends existing air-to-air refuelling support for Saudi air operations, according to The Guardian and Al Jazeera. The Guardian reported that the refuelling mission, carried out with an RAF Voyager, has been extended by 90 days. It also reported that the UK will provide military advisers and an Atlas A400M transport aircraft.

Houthi missiles and drones have been used in attacks on Saudi Arabia, including on oil facilities and Riyadh's main airport, according to The Guardian and Al Jazeera. Saudi Arabia backs Yemen's internationally recognised government against the Houthis. The Guardian reported that 13 people were killed when a missile hit King Khalid International Airport in Riyadh this month. It said 19 people have been killed in Saudi Arabia in the conflict. Both outlets cited concern over rising energy prices as part of the rationale for the UK decision.

What is not yet known: The Ministry of Defence did not state how many Typhoons will be deployed, according to The Guardian. The reports do not describe when the missions will begin, how long they will last or where the aircraft will be based. They do not include a response from the Houthis or comment from the Saudi government.

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