Britain will buy additional missiles for its forces stationed in the Middle East in a move aimed at bolstering Gulf states facing aggression from Iran, the government has announced.
The Ministry of Defence confirmed plans to increase its stock of laser-guided Martlet weapons.
These missiles have recently been deployed to successfully intercept drones originating from Tehran.
For security reasons, the exact number of weapons to be purchased was not disclosed.
Manufactured by Thales UK in Belfast, these lightweight multi-role missiles (LMMs) have already demonstrated their "highly capable" performance in regional air defence.
The decision follows a Wednesday meeting where ministers and officials convened with defence industry leaders, including Thales, BAE Systems, and Leonardo UK, to address the strategic situation in the Middle East, the government's response to the conflict, and new support for allied nations under attack.
It comes after US President Donald Trump singled Britain out for censure over its resistance – along with other allies – to immediately agree to his calls for assistance in the Strait of Hormuz, a vital route for global oil and gas supplies.
Mr Trump has also criticised the extent of UK involvement in the conflict more widely, accusing Sir Keir Starmer of being slow to offer support.
At Prime Minister’s Questions on Wednesday, Sir Keir defended his approach, insisting he would not allow UK forces to be drawn into a “wider war”.
Announcing the plans to purchase extra missiles, Defence Secretary John Healey said: “Iran’s indiscriminate attacks are a threat to Britain, our allies and our partners in the region.
“That’s why our dedicated armed forces are taking defensive action in the Middle East.
“A nation’s armed forces are only as strong as the industry that supports them. I’m proud of how our military and industry are stepping up together – just as we are for Ukraine – to offer rapid support to our Gulf partners. This is the best of our British industry, innovators and military in action.”
