RAF Typhoon jets have joined forces with French aircraft in a combined operation targeting an underground arms cache in Syrian territory used by the Daesh militant organization, as stated by the UK's MoD.
The facility, pinpointed through reconnaissance, was assessed as housing weapons and explosive materials, the announcement noted, and was situated in hills just north of Palmyra in central Syria.
"The RAF jets utilized Paveway IV guided bombs to strike a series of access tunnels leading to the facility... early reports suggest the target was engaged successfully," the MoD said.
There was no indication of any harm to civilians in the attack late on Saturday and every plane involved returned to base without incident, the ministry further stated.
The Typhoon fighters were supported by a Voyager refuelling tanker.
IS - referred to as Daesh - imposed extremist governance over large swathes of both Syria and Iraq prior to its 2019 collapse.
"This action demonstrates our UK leadership, and resolve to stand shoulder to shoulder with allied nations, to eliminate any revival of Daesh and their violent and radical beliefs in the region," UK Defence Secretary the Defence Secretary stated.
RAF aircraft have performed overwatch operations over Syria to "forestall any attempted resurgence" of Islamic State following its military defeat at the Baghuz confrontation in 2019, the authorities noted.
"I extend gratitude to all the members of British forces who took part in this mission for their expertise and their valour," he commented. "They were part of numerous British personnel stationed over Christmas and New Year. This mission, to remove militants who threaten our safety, shows how UK forces are prepared to act, all year round, ensuring Britain's security within its borders and strong abroad."
During December, the American forces conducted what it called a "massive strike" against Daesh sites in the country, after an attack claimed the lives of two American soldiers and a civilian linguist in Palmyra.
The UN reports Islamic State still has an estimated 5,000 to 7,000 fighters in Iraq and Syria.
