RAF Typhoon FGR4s have joined forces with France's air force in a joint strike on an hidden munitions depot in Syrian territory operated by the Islamic State group (IS), as stated by the UK Ministry of Defence.
The site, pinpointed through intelligence, was assessed as storing arms and explosives, the statement said, and was located in mountains just above Palmyra in the heart of Syria.
"The RAF jets used Paveway IV guided bombs to hit a number of entry passages providing entry to the depot... initial indications indicate the strike was effective," the MoD said.
There was no indication of any civilian impact in the strike on Saturday evening and every plane involved returned safely, the ministry further stated.
The Typhoon fighters were supported by a Voyager refuelling tanker.
The Islamic State group - alternatively referred to as the so-called Islamic State - enforced jihadist rule over significant areas in Syria and Iraq prior to its 2019 collapse.
"This action underscores British leadership, and resolve to work closely with our partners, to stamp out any resurgence of the terrorist group and their harmful and extremist ideologies in the region," UK Defence Secretary the Defence Secretary remarked.
RAF aircraft have carried out overwatch operations over Syrian airspace to "prevent any attempted resurgence" of IS after its routing at the battle of Baghuz in 2019, the authorities noted.
"I want to thank all the members of British forces who took part in this strike for their expertise and their bravery," he commented. "Including them were thousands of British personnel on duty over Christmas and New Year. This mission, to eliminate dangerous terrorists who threaten our security, shows how British military are always on standby, throughout the year, ensuring Britain's security domestically and strong abroad."
During December, the United States armed forces carried out what it called a "massive strike" targeting Daesh sites in Syria, subsequent to an ambush claimed the lives of two US servicemembers and a local interpreter in Palmyra.
The UN says IS still boasts roughly 5-7 thousand militants in Syria and Iraq.
