UK deploys Royal Air Force jets to defend Saudi Arabia from Houthi attacks

The United Kingdom announced on Tuesday, October 20, 2026, that it will deploy Royal Air Force (RAF) Typhoon fighter jets to Saudi Arabia. These aircraft are tasked with conducting defensive counter-air missions to protect Saudi cities and critical national infrastructure, such as airports and oil facilities, from ongoing aerial attacks involving drones and ballistic missiles launched by the Iran-aligned Houthi rebels in Yemen.

British Defence Secretary Wes Streeting confirmed the decision, stating that the RAF mission will remain strictly defensive and will not involve offensive strikes against the Houthis. This deployment comes in response to a formal request from the Saudi Arabian government, which Prime Minister Andy Burnham previously indicated the UK was prepared to evaluate. In addition to the Typhoon jets, Britain is increasing its regional footprint by deploying an Atlas A400M transport aircraft and providing extra military advisors.

This move represents an expansion of existing British military assistance currently stationed within the kingdom. The UK government maintains that the intensifying Houthi attacks threaten regional stability, trade routes, and energy supplies, with particular concern raised over the recent targeting of Riyadh airport.