British Air Force Typhoon FGR4s have joined forces with French aircraft in a coordinated attack on an subterranean weapons facility in Syrian territory employed by the Islamic State group (IS), according to the UK's MoD.
The facility, located using reconnaissance, was assessed as storing arms and explosives, the announcement noted, and was situated in mountainous terrain just above Palmyra in the heart of Syria.
"Our aircraft utilized Paveway IV guided bombs to target a series of approach shafts down to the depot... preliminary assessments indicate the target was engaged successfully," the MoD said.
There was no indication of any civilian casualties in the operation on Saturday evening and every plane involved made a safe return, the MoD added.
The British jets were assisted by a Voyager refuelling tanker.
The Islamic State group - alternatively referred to as Daesh - established jihadist rule over significant areas in Iraq and Syria prior to its 2019 collapse.
"This action demonstrates British leadership, and resolve to operate in unison with our allies, to stamp out any re-emergence of the terrorist group and their dangerous and violent ideologies in the area," Britain's Defence Chief John Healey stated.
RAF aircraft have performed overwatch operations over Syria to "forestall any attempted resurgence" of Islamic State following its military defeat at the battle of Baghuz in the year 2019, the authorities noted.
"I want to thank the personnel of British forces participating in this mission for their professionalism and their valour," Healey said. "Including them were thousands of UK service members deployed over the festive period. This action, to eliminate militants who threaten our way of life, demonstrates how UK forces are ready to step up, all year round, keeping Britain secure domestically and powerful internationally."
During December, the US military executed what it called a "major assault" against Daesh sites in Syria, after an assault claimed the lives of two US troops and a civilian interpreter in Palmyra.
The UN says IS still has an estimated 5,000 to 7,000 militants in both countries.
