Royal Air Force Typhoon fighter aircraft have operated alongside France's air force in a coordinated attack targeting an subterranean weapons facility in Syria employed by the Daesh militant organization, as stated by the British defence ministry.
The facility, located using intelligence, was believed to be storing arms and explosives, the announcement noted, and was situated in hills just above the ancient city of Palmyra in central Syria.
"The RAF jets used precision-guided Paveway IV munitions to strike a series of entry passages providing entry to the depot... initial indications suggest the strike was effective," the MoD said.
There was no evidence of any civilian impact in the attack late on Saturday and all the aircraft made a safe return, the ministry further stated.
The British jets were assisted by a Voyager aerial refuelling aircraft.
The Islamic State group - alternatively referred to as ISIS - imposed jihadist rule over significant areas in both Syria and Iraq prior to its 2019 collapse.
"This action underscores British leadership, and commitment to work closely with our allies, to eliminate any re-emergence of Daesh and their violent and radical beliefs in the region," UK Defence Secretary the minister stated.
British military aircraft have performed surveillance missions over Syrian airspace to "prevent any attempted comeback" of the group subsequent to its military defeat at the battle of Baghuz in 2019, the authorities noted.
"I want to thank all the members of the UK armed forces participating in this mission for their skill and their valour," he commented. "They were part of thousands of British troops on duty over the holidays. This mission, to eliminate militants who endanger our way of life, highlights how British military are ready to step up, throughout the year, ensuring Britain's security within its borders and powerful internationally."
Last December, the US military executed what it called a "massive strike" on IS targets in the country, subsequent to an assault killed two American soldiers and a local interpreter in the Palmyra area.
The UN estimates Daesh still boasts between 5,000 and 7,000 fighters in both countries.
