Britain will deploy RAF Typhoon jets to shield Saudi cities from Houthi missiles and drones in a defensive-only mission
From the Newshound archive · first published 20 October 2026.
The jets will fly defensive missions only. They will not strike Houthi targets or enter Yemeni airspace, the Ministry of Defence said. Britain will also send an Atlas A400M transport plane and military advisers, and RAF refuelling support for Saudi jets is extended by 90 days. Prime Minister Andy Burnham approved the deployment after Houthi strikes on Riyadh's King Khalid International Airport killed 13 people.
Defence Secretary Wes Streeting says the conflict is driving up costs for British households.
Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman's requests for greater US military assistance have so far been turned down by President Trump.
Analyst Michael Clarke warns the Typhoons are already 'pretty stretched' policing NATO's Baltic airspace.
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