Shortly after the United States launched strikes on Iran, Tehran responded with retaliation. On Sunday, 1 March, a Shahed-type drone struck a hangar at RAF Akrotiri in Cyprus, causing limited damage but raising serious concerns about UK military readiness.
For the first time since 1980, there are currently no Royal Navy warships stationed in the Gulf to protect British interests abroad or in the Mediterranean to help defend its own bases. The Type 45 destroyer HMS Dragon is expected to deploy to Cyprus soon, but it may take between five and seven days to arrive.
With a shrinking and ageing fleet, along with years of limited defence spending, questions are being raised about the Royal Navy’s readiness during a time of rising tensions in the region.
Should the UK have been better prepared for what is unfolding? In this video, BFBS Forces News speaks with former Royal Navy Commodore Steve Prest to analyse the situation and discuss what it means for Britain’s defence capabilities.
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