Britain has sent a Merlin Mk2 helicopter of the Navy to Cyprus, strengthening the defense of its military bases on the island. This move comes ahead of the departure of the ship HMS Dragon, which will sail in two days.
The helicopter was transferred from a naval terminal to Cornwall and joins the two Wildcat helicopters that have already been deployed in Cyprus since last Friday.
According to British officials, the Merlin will offer "an extra layer of defense" as it has the ability to fly at an altitude of up to a mile, providing early warning of any incoming missiles or drones.
In addition, the British Ministry of Defense also announced the shipment of the RFA ship Lyme Bay "for maritime missions in the Eastern Mediterranean".
Lyme Bay is a landing ship, equipped to function as an aviation platform and has medical facilities. It is often used for humanitarian and post-disaster relief missions.
Meanwhile, Defence Secretary John Healy told the House of Commons last night that HMS Dragon will depart for Cyprus "in the next two days" as navy crews work "tirelessly, 22 hours a day" to get the warship ready.
