UK to Deploy Additional Air Defence Systems to Gulf Allies

Britain's Prime Minister Keir Starmer speaks in London on Monday during a meeting to discuss the US-Israeli conflict with Iran and the impact on the Strait of Hormuz.Jaimi Joy/Reuters

RIYADH, March 31, 2026 (Saudi Arabia Breaking News) – Britain is deploying additional air defence systems and troops to Gulf allies as Iranian missile and drone attacks continue across the region, including the Sky Sabre system in Saudi Arabia and an extended deployment of Typhoon fighter jets in Qatar, British officials said on Tuesday.

British Defence Secretary John Healey announced the measures during a regional visit that included Saudi Arabia, Qatar and Bahrain, with London describing the deployments as part of support for the collective defence of Gulf partners.

The UK Ministry of Defence said a short-range air defence system had also been deployed to Bahrain, while a ground-based missile system had arrived in Kuwait. Britain is expected to send nearly 1,000 troops across the region to help install, operate and support the new systems.

In a statement released by the ministry, Healey said Britain would continue to support long-term partners in the Middle East while pressing for a swift resolution to the conflict.