Helicopters from 815 Naval Air Squadron were transported to Akrotiri base on an RAF C-17 to bolster defenses against drones.
Two AW159 Wildcat-Helicopter the Royal Navy are at the air base RAF Akrotiri arrived in Cyprus to reinforce the defense of British forces in the region.
The machines belong to the 815 Naval Air Squadron and were quickly on base RNAS Yeovilton prepared before boarding one RAF C-17 Globemaster IIItransport aircraft were brought to the eastern Mediterranean.
Equipped with Martlet light multi-purpose missiles The helicopters are now part of the UK’s air defense network on the island, strengthening the ability to respond to new threats.
Reinforcement against drones
Die MartletMissiles are designed to neutralize drones and other small aerial threats. The system reached full operational capability in October 2025.
Tests have shown that the weapon can hit air targets both day and night, providing an effective solution against subsonic drones when the helicopter is quickly deployed on the interception mission.
Shoulder-mounted versions of this system have already proven their effectiveness in conflict in the Ukraine proved where several Russian drones were destroyed.
In tests, everyone can Wildcat up to 20 Martlet missiles carry, although helicopters are currently authorized for use up to 10 units allowed to carry with you.
+ Video: WildcatRoyal Navy helicopter demonstrates precision while shooting down a Banshee drone with a Martlet– Rockets
RAF Strategic Transport
So that they can get into the hold of the C-17 Globemaster To fit, technical teams removed parts of the helicopter, including Rotor blades, weapon wings and the horizontal tail stabilizer.
In addition to the helicopters transported a RAF A400M Atlas-Aircraft crews, engineers, spare parts and ammunition needed for operations in Cyprus.
Transporting Wildcat helicopters with C-17 transport aircraft is common practice. In recent years the machines have been repeatedly upgraded Norway relocated to take part in the military exercise Clockwork to participate.
Expansion of the British air defense network
The arrival of the Wildcats adds a new layer to the air defense system deployed in Cyprus.
The base RAF Akrotiri is already operating Typhoon and F-35B fighter jetscarrying out air patrols and drone interception missions to protect British and allied interests in the region.
Another expected reinforcement is the arrival of the destroyer HMS Dragon the Type-45-class, which is expected to reach the eastern Mediterranean in the coming days. The ship has the ability to defend against medium-range ballistic missiles.
US Navy destroyer, the aircraft carrier’s carrier strike group USS Gerald R. Ford accompany, also operate in close proximity and have the ability to intercept ballistic threats.
Source and images: Ministry of Defense – X @DefenceHQ. This content was created using AI and reviewed by the editorial team.
