British Air Force Typhoon FGR4s have joined forces with French aircraft in a joint strike targeting an subterranean weapons facility in Syria used by the Islamic State group (IS), according to the British defence ministry.
The site, pinpointed through reconnaissance, was assessed as housing weapons and explosive materials, the release indicated, and was positioned in hills just north of the historic site of Palmyra in Syria's central region.
"The RAF jets employed laser-guided Paveway IV weapons to hit a number of approach shafts leading to the depot... preliminary assessments suggest the target was engaged successfully," the ministry announced.
There was no indication of any harm to civilians in the strike conducted Saturday night and every plane involved returned safely, the MoD added.
The Typhoon fighters were supported by a Voyager refuelling tanker.
IS - alternatively referred to as the so-called Islamic State - imposed militant control over significant areas in both Syria and Iraq until 2019.
"This action demonstrates the UK's leading role, and resolve to stand shoulder to shoulder with our partners, to stamp out any resurgence of Daesh and their violent and radical beliefs in the area," Britain's Defence Chief John Healey stated.
UK warplanes have carried out overwatch operations over Syria to "forestall any attempted resurgence" of Islamic State subsequent to its defeat at the battle of Baghuz in 2019, the authorities noted.
"I extend gratitude to the personnel of our armed forces participating in this mission for their professionalism and their bravery," the Defence Secretary added. "Including them were thousands of British troops stationed over the festive period. This action, to take out dangerous terrorists who pose a risk to our safety, highlights how UK forces are ready to step up, all year round, ensuring Britain's security within its borders and strong abroad."
Last December, the American forces conducted what it described as a "massive strike" against IS targets in the country, following an ambush claimed the lives of two US troops and a civilian linguist in Palmyra.
The UN estimates Islamic State still boasts an estimated 5,000 to 7,000 fighters in both countries.
