UK Deploys Additional Surveillance Helicopters, Downs Drone Near Hormuz

07/04/2026

LONDON, Apr 7: The UK Ministry of Defence said two additional Merlin Crowsnest helicopters have arrived at British bases in Cyprus, enhancing airborne surveillance and long-range tracking capabilities across maritime, land, and air domains.

The aircraft, capable of operating at high altitude, will support ongoing monitoring operations in the region as tensions continue around the Strait of Hormuz.

The ministry also said the UK is hosting a multinational military planning conference at the Permanent Joint Headquarters to discuss post-conflict measures and coordination for an international coalition once hostilities cease.

Separately, it confirmed that RAF Regiment personnel operating in a high-threat area shot down an Iranian drone overnight, while UK Typhoon and F-35 jets, supported by Voyager refuelling aircraft and Royal Navy helicopters, continue defensive missions across the region.