UK to deploy RAF Typhoon fighter jets to defend Saudi Arabia from Houthi attacks

The UK is planning to deploy RAF Typhoon fighter jets to defend Saudi Arabia from Houthi attacks, the UK announced on Tuesday.

The jets will fly defensive counter-air missions to support Saudi air defenses and will not be used to conduct offensive operations against the Houthis.

The UK will provide an RAF A400M air transport aircraft to support internal Saudi defense transport needs, as well as UK military advisers to support Saudi staff officers.

Last month, the UK announced it was sending a single RAF Voyager refuelling aircraft to support Saudi efforts in Yemen. This deployment has been extended.

"The continuing attacks from the Houthis on our ally Saudi Arabia are absolutely despicable. The targeting of the airport in Riyadh in particular shows the lengths the Houthis are going to escalate the situation in the region," Defence Minister Wes Streeting said.