[63225] UK deploys new system to intercept UAVs in the Middle East

UK strengthens its air defense in the Middle East

The British Ministry of Defence announced today, May 17, 2026, the deployment of a new and cost-effective system against UAVs (Unmanned Aerial Vehicles) in the Middle East region. The system, known as APKWS, is installed on the Royal Air Force's 'Typhoon' fighter jets operating in the Persian Gulf.

According to a report by Iran International, the system uses laser technology that allows converting unguided rockets into "precise and cheap weapons," capable of intercepting drones and other aerial threats. According to Iran International, the British Ministry of Defence emphasized that the development and deployment of the system were carried out in "rapid collaboration with the defense industries" within just a few months, with the goal of protecting British citizens and its regional partners.

The Iranian state news agency IRNA also confirmed the deployment, noting that it is a "sustainable method for dealing with a high volume of relatively cheap attacking drones." The Iranian media outlet refrained from providing broad commentary beyond the technical report, although the channel's systemic stance is characterized by hostility toward Western or Israeli military activity in the region.

The British move comes in response to growing challenges from unmanned aerial vehicles, as the use of laser technology to precision-guide existing ammunition is perceived as an economically efficient solution against similar threats in the global military market.