New Delhi, In a significant development, a British Royal Navy warship, HMS Diamond, successfully intercepted and destroyed a suspected attack drone in the Red Sea using a Sea Viper missile. UK Defence Secretary Grant Shapps announced the operation via Twitter, emphasizing the UK’s commitment to maritime security amid escalating threats in the region.
The Red Sea, a crucial waterway connecting the Mediterranean to the Indian Ocean, has witnessed a series of illegal attacks by Iranian-backed Houthi rebels, prompting international efforts to safeguard global trade routes. The HMS Diamond’s intervention reflects the UK’s dedication to countering such threats and ensuring the unimpeded flow of international commerce.
The recent incident follows reports of Iranian-backed Houthi rebels targeting commercial vessels, including the Bahamas-flagged Unity Explorer. Maersk, the world’s largest shipping company, also issued a cautionary directive for its vessels navigating the Bab el-Mandeb Strait after a missile attack on a Liberian-flagged cargo ship.
The UK’s proactive stance underscores the global significance of maintaining maritime security in the face of evolving geopolitical challenges.