CYPRUS March 4, 2026 – The United Kingdom is deploying the advanced Type 45 air defence destroyer HMS Dragon to the eastern Mediterranean to strengthen security around the RAF Akrotiri base in Cyprus, Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer has confirmed.
The move follows a drone strike on the runway at RAF Akrotiri on Sunday evening, which caused only minimal damage. The incident has been linked to broader attacks by Iran and its proxies across the region as the US-Israel conflict with Iran intensifies.
BBC Breakfast’s Europe correspondent Jessica Parker, reporting from Cyprus, discussed the decision on the programme this morning, highlighting Britain’s commitment to protecting its military personnel and sovereign bases.
Alongside HMS Dragon — crewed by more than 200 personnel and capable of launching eight missiles in under 10 seconds — two Royal Navy Wildcat helicopters equipped with Martlet missiles for counter-drone operations will also be sent.
“The UK is fully committed to the security of Cyprus and British military personnel based there. We will always act in the interest of the UK and our allies,” Starmer stated.
Defence Secretary John Healey added: “We are moving quickly to further reinforce our defensive presence in the Eastern Mediterranean. HMS Dragon brings world-class air defence capability, and our Wildcat helicopters are armed with Martlet missiles to counter the growing drone threat.”
The Royal Navy currently has no major warship in the Mediterranean, with three of its six Type 45 destroyers in maintenance. HMS Dragon is being prepared rapidly for the mission.
In the past 24 hours, UK forces have shot down multiple drones over Iraq, Jordan and Qatar, including the first operational use of RAF F-35B jets in a combat role.
Starmer spoke directly with Cypriot President Nikos Christodoulides on Tuesday, expressing outrage at the drone attack on Akrotiri and reaffirming Britain’s support.
The deployment comes as allies step up their presence: France is sending its aircraft carrier Charles de Gaulle and a frigate to the region, while Greece is contributing four F-16 jets and two frigates, including one with advanced anti-drone systems.
The situation in the eastern Mediterranean remains fluid, with this latest British action underscoring growing concerns over drone threats to coalition forces and bases.
The story is developing. Sources: BBC Breakfast and official UK government statements.
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