Drone Strikes and Interceptions Escalate Tensions at RAF Akrotiri in Cyprus

A British Royal Air Force (RAF) base in Akrotiri, Cyprus, has been targeted by drone attacks, prompting heightened security measures and raising concerns about the widening conflict involving Iran. Despite the attacks, the UK government maintains it is not at war.

Drone Attack and Interceptions

On Monday, March 2, 2026, a Shahed-type drone caused “minor material damage” to military installations at RAF Akrotiri, according to Cyprus President Nikos Christodoulides . Later in the day, two additional unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) heading towards the same base were successfully intercepted . A Cypriot government spokesperson confirmed the interceptions on X (formerly Twitter).

UK Response and US Support

British Prime Minister Keir Starmer had previously stated the UK would support the US in the war against Iran . Following the initial drone strike, sirens sounded at RAF Akrotiri, and British Typhoon and F-35 warplanes were scrambled . The Ministry of Defence (MoD) initiated precautionary measures, including the temporary dispersal of non-essential personnel and moving family members to alternative accommodation .

Regional Impact and Concerns

The attacks on Akrotiri, a British sovereign base area, come after the RAF recently bolstered its defenses with radar systems, anti-drone defenses, and F-35 jets . An airport in Paphos, Cyprus, was temporarily evacuated after a suspect object was detected on radar, highlighting the broader regional impact of the escalating conflict . Cypriot President Christodoulides emphasized that Cyprus is not involved in the conflict and does not intend to participate in any military operations .

UK Position

Despite the attacks and its support for the US, the British government has stated that the UK is not at war .