London – Defence experts have warned that Britain’s armed forces are currently incapable of protecting Israel from large-scale ballistic missile attacks launched by Iran. This stark assessment comes in the wake of Iran’s unprecedented barrage of nearly 200 long-range missiles fired at Israel, marking its most significant assault to date.
The Royal Air Force’s (RAF) Typhoon jet fighters, while formidable, reportedly lack the necessary weaponry to effectively counter such an attack. This deficiency relegated the UK to a supporting role, primarily assisting the US in defending its ally.
Adding to the concern, former Defence Secretary Sir Ben Wallace revealed that the UK’s Type-45 anti-missile destroyers would also face difficulties responding to a missile onslaught of this magnitude. Sources within the Royal Navy further disclosed that their carrier strike groups are undermanned, hindering their operational effectiveness in a combat zone.
Experts attribute this alarming situation to a chronic lack of military investment, which has eroded Britain’s ability to act decisively on the world stage. Tom Sharpe, a retired navy commander, lamented, “Our involvement [in the response to Iran] was underwhelming, and it’s a reflection of 40 years of underfunding.” He stressed the urgency of bolstering the UK’s ballistic missile defence capabilities, particularly considering escalating tensions in the Middle East and the ongoing conflict in Ukraine.
Despite these concerns, Ministry of Defence sources maintain that the UK Armed Forces remain prepared for the evolving situation in the Middle East. They insist that despite limited engagement in Tuesday’s operation, they possess the capability to intercept ballistic missiles.
Read Also: ‘Iran’s attack on Israel: World leaders urge cessation of hostilities
Meanwhile, tensions continue to escalate in the region, with reports suggesting Israel is planning a “significant” retaliatory strike against Iran, potentially targeting oil facilities or nuclear sites.
US President Joe Biden has stated that while the US supports Israel’s right to self-defence, any response must be “proportionate.” He explicitly stated that the US does not endorse an Israeli attack on Iran’s nuclear facilities.
UK Labour Party leader Sir Keir Starmer echoed these sentiments, supporting Israel’s right to defend itself while urging de-escalation.
This crisis has exposed a critical vulnerability in the UK’s defence capabilities, raising serious questions about its ability to fulfil its international commitments and protect its allies in an increasingly volatile world.
