UK to Provide Air-to-Air Refuelling Support to Saudi Arabia

British Prime Minister Andy Burnham has approved a Saudi Arabian request for defensive air-to-air refuelling support, describing the move as a contribution to regional stability. The decision follows intensified attacks on Saudi Arabia by the Houthis, who control the most populous areas of Yemen, opening a new front in the wider conflict that began with U.S. and Israeli strikes on Iran in late February.

Speaking to reporters en route to New York for the United Nations General Assembly, Burnham said he acted on the advice of the defence and foreign secretaries. "We have received a request from the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia for military support, and on the advice of the defence secretary and the foreign secretary, last night I agreed to that request for defensive air-to-air refuelling," he said. He noted that Saudi Arabia has been facing attacks and that keeping key routes open was necessary.

Britain will deploy one Voyager aircraft in the coming days as part of the arrangement. Burnham characterised the assistance as time-limited and subject to continued review. He added that Britain is also playing a role in the Middle East by supporting efforts to keep the Strait of Hormuz open.

The two countries have maintained close military ties for decades, with Britain among Saudi Arabia's largest arms suppliers. Earlier this year, Britain sent its Sky Sabre air defence system to Saudi Arabia to help shield the kingdom from Iranian missile attacks during the U.S.-Israeli conflict with Iran.