UK Deploys Rapid Sentry Air Defense to Bahrain, Kuwait, and Saudi Arabia

PM Starmer announced the UK is deploying short-range air defense systems to Bahrain, Kuwait, and Saudi Arabia 'at speed.' Defence Secretary John Healey confirmed the Rapid Sentry anti-drone system — described as 'battle-tested' and 'already proved highly effective for UK forces taking down drones in the region' — is being sent to Kuwait. The UK is also distributing air defense missiles via industry partnerships. This expands Britain's direct military footprint in the Gulf theater beyond its existing bases.