Royal Air Force Typhoon fighter aircraft have conducted a mission with French aircraft in a coordinated attack against an subterranean weapons facility in Syria operated by the IS group, according to the UK Ministry of Defence.
The site, located using surveillance, was believed to be housing weapons and explosive materials, the release indicated, and was positioned in mountainous terrain just above the historic site of Palmyra in the heart of Syria.
"The RAF jets employed laser-guided Paveway IV weapons to strike a number of access tunnels leading to the depot... initial indications indicate the strike was effective," the ministry announced.
There was no indication of any civilian casualties in the operation conducted Saturday night and every plane involved returned safely, the MoD added.
The British jets were supported by a Voyager refuelling tanker.
IS - alternatively referred to as ISIS - imposed jihadist rule over significant areas in both Syria and Iraq until 2019.
"This strike shows the UK's leading role, and resolve to operate in unison with allied nations, to eliminate any re-emergence of Daesh and their violent and radical beliefs in the region," Britain's Defence Chief the Defence Secretary said.
British military aircraft have carried out surveillance missions over Syrian airspace to "deter any efforts to regroup" of Islamic State following its military defeat at the battle of Baghuz in 2019, the MoD reported.
"I extend gratitude to the personnel of the UK armed forces who took part in this mission for their skill and their bravery," he commented. "They were part of a great many British personnel on duty over the festive period. This operation, to take out dangerous terrorists who endanger our way of life, highlights how British military are ready to step up, throughout the year, keeping Britain secure within its borders and strong abroad."
In December, the American forces executed what it described as a "massive strike" on IS targets in the country, subsequent to an assault resulted in the deaths of two US troops and a civilian linguist in the Palmyra area.
The UN estimates IS still boasts an estimated 5,000 to 7,000 combatants in both countries.
