THE Royal Air Force has carried out a joint strike with French on a Daesh-linked underground facility in Syria.
This is part of ongoing efforts to prevent the terrorist group’s resurgence.
The target was an underground complex in mountainous terrain north of the ancient city of Palmyra.
It was identified through intelligence analysis as a former Daesh weapons and explosives storage site.
The area was not thought to be home to any civilians.
On Saturday evening, RAF Typhoon FGR4 aircraft, supported by a Voyager refuelling tanker, used precision-guided Paveway IV bombs to hit access tunnels leading into the facility.
Initial assessments indicate the strike was successful.
All aircraft returned safely, with no indication of risk to civilians.
The operation follows continued RAF patrols over Syria since Daesh’s military defeat at Baghuz Fawqani in 2019.
Defence Secretary John Healey said the strike demonstrated the UK’s determination to work “shoulder to shoulder with our allies” to prevent any return of Daesh.
Healy thanked Armed Forces personnel for their professionalism and courage, particularly those deployed over the Christmas and New Year period.
“This operation, to eliminate dangerous terrorists who threaten our way of life, shows how our Armed Forces stand ready all year round, keeping Britain secure at home and strong abroad,” he said.
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