European Allies Rush Warships to Protect Cyprus

0:00On March 6, several European countries are rushing warships to the Eastern Mediterranean to safeguard Cyprus and the vulnerable RAF Acro-Tiri base, outpacing Britain's own HMS Dragon. The Netherlands and Spain confirm their frigates will arrive first, with France, Italy, and Greece also sending vessels for protection. France is rerouting its aircraft carrier Charles de Gaulle from the Baltic and deploying the frigate Languedoc, equipped for anti-missile and anti-drone defense. Spain's advanced frigate, Cristobal Colan, and the Dutch air defense frigate Evertson are joining the effort, as leaders coordinate to bolster the area. The RAF base came under attack Sunday evening from Iran-backed Hezbollah forces in Lebanon, damaging the runway and a hanger while targeting U.S. Bombers nearby. Cypriot officials and Middle East allies have criticized Britain's slower response amid rising tensions. Britain plans to send a pair of Wildcat helicopters on Friday, but the destroyer Dragon won't sail until next week.

1:03Defense Secretary John Healy flew in overnight for a visit, taking cover during a fresh drone warning alert. Healy stressed that conflict can evolve quickly, and the UK is ramping up defenses significantly. With more ships on the way, and threats ongoing, the region stays on high alert, as allies work to secure the skies. As allies work to secure the skies, as allies work to secure the