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Fighter jets of the UK Royal Air Force, operating jointly with French aircraft, carried out a precision strike on an underground ISIS facility in central Syria on the evening of January 3, the UK Ministry of Defence reported.
The strike followed intelligence assessments that identified an underground complex in mountainous terrain several miles north of the city of Palmyra. According to estimates, ISIS militants were using the site to store weapons and explosives.
The operation involved RAF Typhoon FGR4 fighter jets, supported by a Voyager aerial refuelling aircraft. British aircraft deployed Paveway IV precision-guided bombs, striking several tunnel entrances leading to the underground facility. Preliminary assessments indicate that the target was successfully destroyed, and all aircraft returned safely to their bases.
UK Defence Secretary John Healey said the operation demonstrated Britain’s leadership and determination to act alongside its allies to prevent the resurgence of ISIS and the spread of its ideology in the Middle East. He also thanked service personnel for their professionalism and courage, stressing that the UK Armed Forces remain ready to operate year-round to ensure security at home and project strength abroad.
