05.03.2026 07:30
The UK Ministry of Defence announced that the two Shahed-type drones targeting the RAF Akrotiri base in Cyprus were not launched by Iran. The statement raised questions about who was behind the attack during a period of ongoing Iran-US/Israel conflict. The UK is strengthening its bases in the Middle East while continuing its operations in the region with fighter jets and air defense systems.
The UK Ministry of Defence announced information regarding the UK's activities in the Middle East. The statement mentioned that F-35B and Typhoon fighter jets conducted flights in the region overnight to protect British interests and allies in the Middle East.
"THE DRONE TARGETING THE BASE DID NOT TAKE OFF FROM IRAN"
In the statement sharing information about the drone attack on the British Royal Air Force (RAF) base Akrotiri located in the Republic of Cyprus, it was stated, "Our Ministry has confirmed that the Shahed-type drone targeting RAF Akrotiri on the night of March 2 did not take off from Iran."
The statement noted that the UK had reinforced its defense systems at its own bases and allied bases in the region within the last 24 hours, and it was reminded that Wildcat helicopters, which have drone defense capabilities, are expected to arrive in Cyprus in the coming days.
THE ATTACK OCCURRED ON MARCH 2
The Akrotiri base, belonging to the Royal Air Force in the Republic of Cyprus, was targeted by an Iranian drone on March 2.
The Ministry of Defence stated that the drone that fell on the base's runway did not cause any casualties, injuries, or significant material damage, while it announced that two drones heading towards the base were intercepted.
The UK has two military bases in Southern Cyprus.