UK to provide limited RAF refuelling support for Saudi Arabia
The time-limited mission is intended to help Saudi aircraft defend against Houthi drone and missile attacks, but will not support Saudi strikes against the Houthis.
British Prime Minister Andy Burnham says the United Kingdom will provide limited Royal Air Force air-to-air refuelling support to Saudi aircraft facing attacks from Yemen’s Houthi rebels.
Burnham said Saudi Arabia had requested military assistance and described the support as defensive and time-limited. The mission is intended to help Saudi aircraft repel drone and missile attacks, rather than support strikes against the Houthis.
UK officials reportedly expect the operation to begin within days and last for weeks, although its precise start date, duration and operational rules have not been confirmed. The mission is expected to involve an RAF Voyager tanker.
The refuelling support will be separate from the Sky Sabre air-defence system already deployed in Saudi Arabia. Burnham said the UK’s aims included protecting regional security and keeping oil supply routes open.
Saudi Arabia has led a coalition supporting Yemen’s internationally recognised government against the Houthis since 2015. The conflict has affected Saudi territory, oil facilities and shipping routes around the Bab el-Mandeb Strait and the Red Sea.
G7 foreign ministers have condemned Houthi attacks and called on Iran to end its support, including the arming of the rebels.
