Britain will deploy Typhoon jets to Saudi Arabia for defensive missions against attacks by the Houthis

Britain will deploy Typhoon fighter jets to Saudi Arabia for defensive missions aimed at protecting cities and critical infrastructure from attacks launched by the Houthi group. The measure was announced on Tuesday by the British Ministry of Defence, amid intensifying attacks on Saudi territory.

Royal Air Force jets will not take part in offensive operations against the Houthi rebels. London will also provide Riyadh with an A400M transport aircraft to deliver defence equipment and will deploy British military advisers to the Saudi General Staff.

Britain already provides logistical support to Saudi Arabia, including air-defence systems and aerial refuelling aircraft for Saudi defensive operations. Defence Minister Wes Streeting condemned the almost daily attacks by the Iran-backed group and accused the Houthis of particularly targeting Riyadh airport.

In recent days, attacks on Saudi airports, energy facilities and military targets have reached unprecedented intensity. Riyadh airport was closed after an attack on 10 October that killed 13 people and injured hundreds, the worst toll recorded in Saudi Arabia in the past ten years.