By Peter Omopo
The United Kingdom will deploy the Royal Navy warship HMS Dragon to the Mediterranean to strengthen security around RAF Akrotiri in Cyprus as tensions escalate in the Middle East.
Prime Minister Keir Starmer announced the move following concerns raised by the Cypriot government over air defence capabilities as the regional conflict intensifies. He confirmed that the Type 45 destroyer would be sent to the region and that additional helicopters equipped with counter-drone capabilities would also be deployed.
The decision comes a day after a drone struck the runway at RAF Akrotiri, causing what the Ministry of Defence described as minimal damage. The base has previously been targeted by Iranian drones amid the ongoing hostilities.
HMS Dragon, based in Portsmouth, is one of the Royal Navy’s six Type 45 air defence destroyers. Currently, three of the six vessels are at various stages of readiness, while the others are undergoing maintenance. The Royal Navy does not presently have a major warship stationed in the Mediterranean.
Earlier reports had suggested that HMS Duncan might be deployed, but Starmer confirmed that HMS Dragon would take on the mission. He stated that the UK remains fully committed to the security of Cyprus and British military personnel stationed there.
Downing Street said the UK had already sent significant defensive assets to RAF Akrotiri, including radar systems, air defence equipment and F-35 jets. However, questions have been raised about whether existing ground-based air defence systems at the base are sufficient.
The development follows reports that France is also adjusting its military posture in the region, with plans to deploy air and maritime assets to Cyprus as part of efforts to support regional stability.
Speaking in Parliament earlier, Starmer said the drone strike on RAF Akrotiri occurred before the UK announced it would allow the United States to use its bases. He clarified that the Cyprus bases are not being used by the US and are not suitable for that purpose.
The Prime Minister also defended his decision not to participate in recent US and Israeli strikes on Iran, despite criticism from former US President Donald Trump. Starmer maintained that his actions were guided by Britain’s national interest, while warning that Iran’s response now poses a threat to UK personnel and allies in the region.
