Summary
The RAF is conducting air defense missions using refueling tankers and jets to counter Iranian drones around Cyprus and Jordan. BBC reporters joined one such mission to observe operations. The missions include refueling fighter jets and confronting drone threats amid tensions following US and Israeli actions against Iran.
Key Facts
- RAF jets are patrolling skies over Cyprus and Jordan to defend against Iranian drones.
- The operations involve Typhoon and F-35 jets refueling mid-air from an RAF Voyager tanker.
- The missions started a month ago, after US and Israel launched actions against Iran.
- Jets have refueled seven times during a nine-hour mission.
- British jets have used advanced missiles to shoot down multiple Iranian drones.
- The operation has the name "Operation Luminous" and involves complex maneuvers.
- Despite preparations, a drone hit the RAF Akrotiri base, causing minor damage.
- The RAF has increased defenses at the base, including additional jets and radar systems.
