British soldiers helped defend a coalition base during a UK troops Erbil drone strike in northern Iraq, according to John Healey.
The UK defence secretary confirmed that drones targeted a military facility in Erbil, in the Kurdistan region of Iraq. However, the attack did not injure any British personnel.
Healey said British troops currently operate at the base to defend coalition forces from drone threats. As a result, the team actively intercepted drones during the attack and protected nearby troops.
Speaking during a visit to the UK’s military headquarters in Northwood, Healey described the role British forces played during the incident.
“We have a team at the base in Erbil pulling down drones,” he said. “They protect themselves and the base.”
Meanwhile, military officials reported that drones also struck another coalition site in Baghdad overnight. Brigadier Guy Foden confirmed that the attacks hit both locations several times.
Coalition forces operate the base in Erbil under the leadership of the United States military. The facility also hosts troops from several allied countries, including the United Kingdom.
Furthermore, Emmanuel Macron said the drone strike killed one French soldier and injured several others. Some American personnel also suffered injuries during the attack.
Erbil remains an important military and diplomatic hub in Iraq. The city hosts key international missions, strategic facilities, and bases used by coalition forces.
At the same time, Healey suggested that the attacks resemble tactics used by Russia during its war against Ukraine.
“No one will be surprised to believe that Vladimir Putin’s hidden hand sits behind some of the Iranian tactics,” Healey said.
The UK troops Erbil drone strike highlights rising tensions across the Middle East. In recent weeks, militants have increased missile and drone attacks on military and strategic sites in several countries.
Therefore, coalition forces continue to strengthen air defence systems and closely monitor the security situation across the region.
British officials said their troops remain safe. However, military leaders continue to watch developments carefully as tensions remain high.
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