The British Royal Navy warship HMS Dragon has set sail from Portsmouth and is heading toward Cyprus, the navy announced on Tuesday, March 10.
“The decision to send the Royal Navy assets came as Iran’s attacks continue to target British interests in the region and the UK Armed Forces continue to adapt to the changing threats,” it said.
HMS Dragon is equipped with the Sea Viper missile system to support the safeguarding of “UK assets and interests.”
The navy said the system can launch eight missiles in less than ten seconds and direct up to 16 missiles simultaneously, “close them in for the kill” at speeds of up to four times the speed of sound.
The deployment follows a drone attack on the British air base at RAF Akrotiri in Cyprus.
In response, the UK sent air defence systems, radar and F-35 Lightning II aircraft, which are already conducting air defence sorties.
Fleet commander Steve Moorhouse said: “I am proud that our highly-professional personnel have responded in a short time to ensure HMS Dragon and the Wildcats from 815 Naval Air Squadron are fully prepared for their mission.”
The destroyer carries around 200 sailors and is one of six Type 45 warships, described as the fleet’s “first line of defence against aerial threats.”
UK Defence Secretary John Healey praised personnel for preparing the ship quickly, saying: “What is normally six weeks of work was completed in just six days – a remarkable effort delivered around the clock. They are the very best of Britain in action.”
No official arrival time in Cyprus has been announced.
Source: Cyprus Mail.
