The UK will send warships, fighter jets, and other forces to participate in the escort operation in the Strait of Hormuz.

Xinhua News Agency, London, May 12 (Reporter Zhao Xiaona) - The British Ministry of Defense stated on the 12th that the UK will send warships, fighter jets, as well as unmanned mine clearance equipment and anti-drone systems to participate in the multinational escort operation in the Strait of Hormuz.

British Defense Secretary John Healey announced this plan after an online defense ministers' meeting attended by representatives from over 40 countries. The UK Ministry of Defense stated that it will allocate an additional £115 million (approximately 1.057 billion yuan) for the relevant tasks, aimed at unmanned mine clearance equipment and anti-drone systems.

According to the plan, combat-experienced Typhoon fighter jets will carry out air patrol missions, and mine clearance experts will also participate in the relevant operations. The British destroyer HMS Dragon is en route to the Middle East to prepare for the operation, and its onboard Sea Viper air defense system has anti-drone capabilities.

Healey stated in the announcement that the UK is working with allies to maintain the security of the Strait of Hormuz. The newly deployed anti-drone systems, warships, and fighter jets will help enhance international commercial shipping confidence and mitigate the impact of regional conflicts on the UK.

The UK Ministry of Defense emphasized that this operation is "strictly defensive in nature" and aims to ensure the safety of international shipping.