UK weighs sending warship to shield RAF Akrotiri

Britain has yet to decide whether it will send a warship to defend its Royal Air Force Akrotiri base in Cyprus, a source close to the matter said on Tuesday after the Times newspaper reported ministers had discussed such a deployment.

The Times reported that the UK is planning to send a warship to protect RAF Akrotiri, citing three sources familiar with internal defence discussions.

The move would come after an Iranian-made drone struck a runway at the base in the early hours of Monday, causing minor material damage but no injuries.

British authorities have said that UK military assets were targeted as part of Iran’s wider retaliation against US and Israeli actions in the Middle East.

According to the report, Defence secretary John Healey met senior military figures on Tuesday to assess the evolving threat environment.

During the meeting, officials discussed the potential deployment of the Type 45 destroyer HMS Duncan to the region to strengthen air and missile defence capabilities around the base.

The UK defence ministry did not immediately comment on the report, though British officials have previously stressed that security measures at Akrotiri are under constant review and that Britain retains the ability to reinforce its presence rapidly if required.

The reported discussions come as Cyprus itself has moved to strengthen its defensive posture through close coordination with European partners.

On Tuesday, France announced its intent to deploy anti-missile and anti-drone systems to the island, along with at least one frigate, following a request from President Nikos Christodoulides.

Greece has also stepped up its military support, with F-16 fighter jets and two Belharra class frigates already deployed to Cyprus in recent days.

Cypriot officials have described these moves as precautionary and defensive, aimed at safeguarding the island and critical infrastructure rather than responding to a direct threat against civilian areas.

Cyprus’ government has repeatedly stated that the republic itself is not a target and that it continues to engage in diplomatic efforts aimed at de-escalation.

President Nikos Christodoulides has held a series of calls with European leaders, arguing that a coordinated European response is essential in preventing further destabilisation.