RAF Typhoon FGR4s have joined forces with France's air force in a combined operation against an subterranean weapons facility in Syrian territory employed by the Islamic State group (IS), per a report from the UK Ministry of Defence.
The facility, identified by reconnaissance, was thought to be housing weapons and explosive materials, the announcement noted, and was located in mountains just north of the ancient city of Palmyra in the heart of Syria.
"Our aircraft employed laser-guided Paveway IV weapons to hit a several access tunnels leading to the depot... early reports indicate the strike was effective," officials stated.
There was no evidence of any civilian impact in the attack late on Saturday and each participating jet returned safely, the ministry further stated.
The Typhoon fighters were backed up by a Voyager aerial refuelling aircraft.
The Islamic State group - alternatively referred to as ISIS - imposed jihadist rule over significant areas in Iraq and Syria before its territorial defeat in 2019.
"This operation underscores the UK's leading role, and resolve to work closely with our partners, to stamp out any re-emergence of IS and their violent and radical beliefs in the Middle East," Britain's Defence Chief the minister said.
British military aircraft have carried out patrols over Syria to "forestall any efforts to regroup" of IS subsequent to its routing at the climactic battle in Baghuz in 2019, the authorities noted.
"I extend gratitude to all the members of the UK armed forces who took part in this strike for their professionalism and their bravery," he said. "They were among thousands of British troops on duty over the festive period. This mission, to eliminate terrorist threats who endanger our way of life, highlights how British military are always on standby, all year round, ensuring Britain's security domestically and powerful internationally."
During December, the American forces executed what it called a "large-scale strike" on Daesh sites in Syria, after an ambush killed two American soldiers and a civilian interpreter in Palmyra.
The U.N. estimates IS still has an estimated 5,000 to 7,000 combatants in Iraq and Syria.
