Britain considers sending warship to Akrotiri base in Cyprus

Britain has not yet decided whether to send a warship to protect its RAF Akrotiri base in Cyprus. A source familiar with the situation said on Tuesday that ministers had discussed the possibility, after it was reported by The Times.

An Iranian-made drone struck the base on Monday night, hitting the runway. London said Iran had targeted British assets.

The Times, citing three sources, reported that Defence Secretary John Healey held talks with senior military officials on Tuesday about sending the destroyer HMS Duncan to the region. The Ministry of Defence did not immediately comment on the report.

According to the Cypriot news agency CNA, France is also planning to help strengthen Cyprus’s defences. It intends to send anti-missile and anti-drone systems to the island.

(reuters, lud)