The UK has decided to send fighter jets and a transport aircraft to the region to provide defensive support to Saudi Arabia against attacks by the Houthis in Yemen.
In a statement from the UK Ministry of Defence, it was stated that Royal Air Force (RAF) Eurofighter Typhoon jets would be deployed to protect critical infrastructure and cities in Saudi Arabia against air attacks.
ROLE OF AIRCRAFT LIMITED TO DEFENSE
The ministry's statement emphasized that the aircraft to be sent would only undertake defensive missions and would not participate in any offensive operations against the Houthis. The UK will also send an A400M transport aircraft for the transport of Saudi military supplies and British military advisors.
The statement recalled that the UK has previously provided support to Saudi Arabia for its self-defense. It was stated that the Houthis' attempts to destabilize the region are "unacceptable" and that these steps further deepen the dire humanitarian situation in Yemen.
UK Defence Secretary Wes Streeting stated that the targeting of the airport in Riyadh demonstrates the Houthis' intention to increase tension in the region. Streeting said that the RAF Typhoon jets would perform defensive duties to protect Saudi Arabian airspace against unmanned aerial vehicles and missiles.
In a written statement sent to the UK Parliament, Streeting reiterated that the aircraft would go to the region to defend Saudi Arabian cities, its people, and its infrastructure. It was also reported that the mission duration of the air-to-air refueling aircraft previously sent to Saudi Arabia has been extended by 90 days.
While stating that it supports the right of Saudi Arabia and the legitimate Yemeni government to defend themselves, the UK also announced that it would not accept the threatening of international shipping traffic or its use for ransom purposes.
News Source: 12punto
