DESTROYER SENT IN

A BRITISH warship bristling with hi-tech weapons is being sent to the Middle East as nations across the region are sucked into the US-Israel war on Iran.

- BY CHRIS HUGHES

Royal Navy destroyer HMS Dragon's deployment comes after a drone hit sovereign airbase RAF Akrotiti in Cyprus on Sunday.

On Monday, Prime Minister Keir Starmer approved the US using British bases for defensive strikes on Iran's missile sites.

The Type-45 destroyer's deployment is a major step in moving UK forces towards the front line as Iran lashes out with drones and missiles.

Wildcat helicopters are also being sent with the warship to protect its 200-strong crew.

The Government has made it clear that British forces in the region are on a "defensive posture" and are not joining President Trump's mission to destroy Iran's regime.

Sources said sending HMS Dragon is “significant - but to be expected”. One added: “As the conflict escalates it is important to get air defences in the region to protect RAF Akrotiri and other UK interests.

“This is one of the most powerful warships in the Royal Navy arsenal and it is a specialist in protecting against an attack from the air.

“It has a highly sophisticated radar detection system and the ability to cope with drones.”

The guided missile destroyer is currently in Portsmouth and once under way will take about six days to get into position.

The source said: “Whether Dragon and her crew and other maritime assets that may be deployed are redeployed elsewhere in the future remains to be seen.”

Royal Air Force Lightnings shot down Iranian drones as they crossed Jordan yesterday. The two F-35Bs were on patrol when they intercepted the incoming drones and opened fire.