Britain has not yet decided whether it will send a UK warship Cyprus to defend its Royal Air Force Akrotiri base, a source close to the matter said on Tuesday, following reports in the Times newspaper.
Drone strike prompts review
The Times reported that UK ministers had discussed deploying a warship to protect RAF Akrotiri, citing sources familiar with internal defence discussions. The discussions follow an Iranian-made drone strike on the base’s runway early Monday, causing minor material damage but no injuries.
British authorities have stated that UK military assets were targeted as part of Iran’s wider retaliation against US and Israeli actions in the region.
Defence officials assess threats
Defence Secretary John Healey met senior military figures on Tuesday to review the evolving threat environment. Officials reportedly discussed the potential deployment of the Type 45 destroyer HMS Duncan to the region to strengthen air and missile defence capabilities around the base.
The UK Defence Ministry did not immediately comment, though officials have stressed that security at Akrotiri is continuously reviewed and that Britain can rapidly reinforce its presence if required.
Cyprus strengthens defensive posture
The discussions come as Cyprus has bolstered its own defensive posture through coordination with European partners. On Tuesday, France announced plans to deploy anti-missile and anti-drone systems to Cyprus, along with at least one frigate, following a request from President Nikos Christodoulides.
Greece has also increased military support, deploying F-16 fighter jets and two Belharra-class frigates to Cyprus in recent days.
Cypriot officials emphasise that these measures are precautionary and defensive, aimed at protecting the island and critical infrastructure rather than civilian areas. The government continues diplomatic efforts to de-escalate tensions, with the president holding multiple calls with European leaders to coordinate a united response.
Also read: France sends missile, anti-drone systems, and frigate to Cyprus
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