A British F-35B has shot down a hostile drone over Jordan, marking the first time a British F-35 has destroyed a target on operations.
The Ministry of Defence confirmed that the fifth-generation jet engaged and destroyed the aerial threat as part of defensive activity across the region. The sortie was supported by RAF Typhoon aircraft and a Voyager air-to-air refuelling tanker.
The engagement forms part of a broader UK response to escalating attacks involving drones and missiles across the Middle East. In parallel operations, a British counter-drone unit neutralised drones in Iraqi airspace heading towards Coalition forces, while an RAF Typhoon operating with the joint UK-Qatar 12 Squadron shot down an Iranian one-way attack drone directed at Qatar using an air-to-air missile.
The use of the F-35B in a live engagement represents a milestone for the aircraft in UK service. The short take-off and vertical landing variant is operated by both the Royal Air Force and Royal Navy, flying from land bases and from the Royal Navy’s Queen Elizabeth-class aircraft carriers.
Defence Secretary John Healey said UK forces were acting to reinforce regional defences.
“We are moving quickly to further reinforce our defensive presence in the Eastern Mediterranean.”
“I am deeply proud of the professionalism and bravery of our Armed Forces personnel who have in recent days successfully taken action across the region to protect our allies and defend British interests.”
Alongside the air operations, the UK is deploying the Type 45 destroyer HMS Dragon to the Eastern Mediterranean. The warship, equipped with the Sea Viper air defence system, will strengthen the UK’s ability to detect and defeat aerial threats, including drones.
Two Royal Navy Wildcat helicopters armed with Martlet missiles are also deploying, adding additional counter-drone capability.
The Ministry of Defence said the measures are aimed at protecting British personnel and interests, while supporting the collective self-defence of allies in the region.