UK to deploy RAF jets for defensive missions against Houthi attacks

On 20 October 2026 Defence Secretary Wes Streeting said he had approved further UK military support for Saudi Arabia. RAF Typhoons based in Qatar will fly defensive air missions to help protect Saudi airspace from Houthi drones and missiles. An Atlas A400M transport aircraft and British military advisers are also to be sent. The package builds on a Voyager refuelling aircraft, air defence equipment and personnel already in the country. Streeting called continuing Houthi attacks on ally Saudi Arabia absolutely despicable and said targeting the airport in Riyadh showed the lengths the Houthis are going to escalate the situation. A defence source told The Times the RAF will carry out defensive air missions above Saudi and take out drones or missiles that come over the border. Coverage states the jets will fly defensive counter-air missions, not offensive strikes on Houthi positions. Bloomberg first reported the deployment. The Times reported 13 civilians killed in the 10 October King Khalid airport attack. Reuters reported a strike on a Yemeni government security training camp killed 58 people, per Yemeni authorities;