The UK has sent elite counter-drone specialists to the Middle East to protect its military bases and allies from Iranian attacks, The Telegraph reported, citing defense sources.
According to the publication, a team of experts with counter-drone experience (including some gained while working with Ukrainian forces) has already arrived in the region. The first part of the team landed yesterday, and the second group is expected soon. Their mission is to strengthen the defense of British facilities and assist partners in the Persian Gulf countries in repelling attacks by Iranian Shahed drones and other UAVs.
The deployment comes amid a sharp escalation in the region following the US and Israeli strikes on Iran in late February 2026. Iran retaliated by launching hundreds of missiles and drone strikes against Western allies, including bases in Iraq, Jordan, Qatar, and Cyprus. Specifically, one of the Iranian drones struck the British airbase at Akrotiri in Cyprus, prompting a serious response from London.
Prime Minister Keir Starmer announced additional measures: the deployment of four Typhoon fighter jets to Qatar, Wildcat helicopters with counter-drone weapons to Cyprus, and the destroyer HMS Dragon to the Eastern Mediterranean. The British Air Force has already shot down Iranian drones over Jordan and Iraq and has also authorized the US to use its bases for defensive operations against Iranian missiles.
In addition to British specialists, experts from Ukraine are being deployed to the region—their experience in countering large-scale drone attacks is considered particularly valuable in the current situation.
Defense Secretary John Healey confirmed that London’s actions are strictly defensive in nature and aimed at protecting British personnel, allies, and regional stability.