THE BRITISH DESTROYER 'DRAGON' IN CYPRUS - TONIGHT THE OPERATIONAL INTEGRATION INTO THE DEFENCE OF CYPRUS BEGINS - Filenews 23/3
The British destroyer "Dragon" that sailed from Portsmouth, southern England on March 10, finally arrived today, Monday, in Cyprus. In other words, it took almost two weeks for him to reach his destination to strengthen the air defenses of the British bases on the island. If these include the seven days, from the time his involvement was decided until his departure, a total of 21 days passed.
"I can confirm to you that HMS Dragon has arrived in the eastern Mediterranean and tonight the operational integration into the defense of Cyprus begins with the allies," British Defense Secretary John Healy told the British Parliament.
In a statement on the war in Iran and the Middle East, the British Defense Secretary also said that "all UK personnel have so far been registered and are safe" in the region. He added that "RAF and Navy pilots have now completed almost 900 flight hours in defence of Cyprus, Jordan, Bahrain, Qatar and the United Arab Emirates. We have more aircraft in the area than at any time in the last 15 years... There are 500 additional air defence personnel in Cyprus and, as more military capabilities are deployed in the eastern Mediterranean, we are working closely with the Republic of Cyprus to coordinate the contribution of allies, including the US, France and Greece, to enhance the security of Cyprus."
It has been three weeks since an Iranian drone struck the British RAF Base in Akrotiri. The "Dragon" is considered one of the most advanced anti-aircraft and missile defense ships in Europe. Its main mission is to protect against aerial threats such as fighter jets, drones, ballistic missiles, etc.
It has the Sea Viper anti-aircraft system with Aster 15 and Aster 30 missiles, as well as the advanced SAMPSON radar, which allows simultaneous tracking and engagement of multiple targets. It is also equipped with a 114mm cannon, close defense systems and the ability to carry a helicopter (Wildcat) for surveillance and anti-submarine warfare missions.
It has repeatedly deployed in the Mediterranean, the Black Sea and the Persian Gulf, participating in both British and NATO operations. It is not often used to escort aircraft carriers.
CNA
