Britain will deploy RAF Typhoon fighter jets on defensive missions to help protect Saudi Arabian cities and critical infrastructure from missile and drone attacks by Houthi forces, the Ministry of Defence announced on Tuesday 20 October.
The government says the aircraft will carry out defensive counter-air operations and will not conduct offensive strikes against the Houthis.
Additional British military support
The Ministry of Defence also confirmed that an RAF A400M transport aircraft will support the movement of defence equipment within Saudi Arabia, while British military advisers will assist Saudi staff officers.
The package expands existing UK assistance, including air-defence equipment and personnel deployed to counter missiles and drones. Britain will also extend air-to-air refuelling support for Saudi defensive air operations.
The ministry said that refuelling support can include Saudi defensive operations aimed at degrading Houthi military targets in Yemen that threaten Saudi and Yemeni people. This is distinct from the RAF Typhoons' stated mission, which is restricted to defensive air patrols.
Defence Secretary responds to escalating attacks
Defence Secretary Wes Streeting said he had approved further assistance following continued attacks on Saudi Arabia, citing the targeting of Riyadh's King Khalid International Airport.
Ministers argue that escalating violence in the Gulf could disrupt energy supplies, increase costs for British businesses and affect the cost of living in the UK. The government also acknowledged the severe humanitarian consequences of the conflict for civilians in Yemen.
Expansion of an existing commitment
The latest announcement follows a separate Ministry of Defence statement on 22 September, when the UK agreed to provide an RAF Voyager air-to-air refuelling aircraft in support of Saudi defensive activity.
Tuesday's decision adds RAF Typhoon defensive missions, an A400M transport aircraft and military advisers. The Ministry of Defence has not specified in its announcement how many Typhoon aircraft will be assigned or when their first patrol will take place.