Jordan – British F-35B Lightning jets achieved a historic first, shooting down hostile drones while protecting UK personnel and allied forces across the Middle East.

Operating over Jordanian airspace, the F-35s intercepted uncrewed aerial systems in defence of Jordan, marking the first time a British F-35 has destroyed a target during active operations. The strike was supported by RAF Typhoons and a Voyager air-to-air refuelling aircraft, ensuring sustained operational capability.

A British counter-drone team also intercepted UAVs in Iraqi airspace that were heading toward Coalition forces, safeguarding UK personnel in the region.

Separately, an RAF Typhoon destroyed an Iranian one-way attack drone targeting Qatar, operating as part of 12 Squadron, the joint UK-Qatar squadron.

These operations reflect the UK’s broader commitment to regional security, actively protecting personnel and allied nations from aerial threats across the Middle East.

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