Combined British-French Airstrike Hits Daesh Arms Cache in Syria

British Air Force Typhoon FGR4s have joined forces with France's air force in a coordinated attack targeting an hidden munitions depot in Syrian territory employed by the Daesh militant organization, as stated by the UK's MoD.

The location, identified by reconnaissance, was thought to be storing arms and explosives, the announcement noted, and was positioned in mountains just above the historic site of Palmyra in the heart of Syria.

"The RAF jets employed precision-guided Paveway IV munitions to target a several entry passages providing entry to the depot... early reports are that the target was engaged successfully," officials stated.

There was no evidence of any civilian impact in the operation conducted Saturday night and each participating jet returned safely, the defence officials confirmed.

The British jets were supported by a Voyager refuelling tanker.

Daesh - referred to as ISIS - imposed militant control over significant areas in Syria and Iraq before its territorial defeat in 2019.

"This operation underscores the UK's leading role, and determination to operate in unison with our allies, to eradicate any resurgence of the terrorist group and their harmful and extremist ideologies in the Middle East," Britain's Defence Chief John Healey remarked.

RAF aircraft have conducted surveillance missions over Syria to "prevent any efforts to regroup" of the group following its defeat at the battle of Baghuz in 2019, the MoD reported.

"I want to thank every member of the UK armed forces participating in this operation for their professionalism and their courage," Healey added. "Including them were a great many British personnel stationed over the holidays. This mission, to eliminate militants who threaten our safety, shows how our armed forces are prepared to act, all year round, ensuring Britain's security at home and strong abroad."

In December, the US military carried out what it described as a "massive strike" on Islamic State objectives in the country, following an attack killed two American soldiers and a civilian interpreter in the Palmyra area.

The UN estimates IS still boasts roughly 5-7 thousand fighters in Syria and Iraq.