UK Defence Secretary John Healey expressed gratitude to the families of British military personnel temporarily relocated from RAF Akrotiri in Cyprus, recognising their support for frontline staff defending against drone attacks.
Visiting the British Bases at Akrotiri, Healey noted that many families were moved to hotels following a decision early on Sunday, after it became clear that Iranian threats were escalating and attacks in the region were becoming more widespread and indiscriminate.
Gratitude to families
“My first message is a big thank you. You support our armed forces personnel in Cyprus who are doing an outstanding job,” Healey said, adding that many UK citizens and Cypriots share the same appreciation.
Reinforced military presence
Healey also highlighted that the UK has significantly increased its military presence on the island, with around 400 additional personnel deployed to strengthen air defence and protect both the base and the wider region.
Drone incident and defence measures
Referring to the recent drone strike at the base, Healey stated that no defence system can fully prevent every attack.
“It was a small drone. Our best assessment is that it was launched from Lebanon, not Iran,” he said.
He emphasised that the UK has already upgraded defensive systems in Cyprus, including radar surveillance, anti-drone measures, and electronic warfare capabilities.
“We had already strengthened air defences weeks before the crisis began to ensure we do everything possible to protect our bases and personnel,” Healey concluded.
"I'm very proud of the support they give"🗣️
— BFBS Forces News (@ForcesNews) March 5, 2026
The Defence Secretary has thanked personnel defending the Middle East and Europe on a visit to Cyprus
John Healey was quizzed on how an Iranian drone was able to pierce the layers of defence at Britain's most important overseas base pic.twitter.com/mQl3CIlkpS
Also read: Cyprus defence readiness remains high
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