Iran: UK will buy more missiles for forces in Middle East as Starmer dismissed Donald Trump challenge

The Ministry of Defence confirmed plans to stock up on more of the laser-guided Martlet weapons, which have been used to down drones from Tehran in recent weeks. It did not say how many would be purchased for security reasons.

The lightweight multi-role missiles (LMMs) manufactured by Thales UK in Belfast have already proven “highly capable” for air defence in the region, the ministry said.

It comes as ministers and officials met with defence industry leaders, including Thales, BAE Systems and Leonardo UK, on Wednesday to discuss the strategic situation in the Middle East, the Government’s response to the conflict and new support for partners coming under attack.

It comes after US President Donald Trump singled Britain out for censure over its resistance – along with other allies – to immediately agree to his calls for assistance in the Strait of Hormuz, a vital route for global oil and gas supplies.

Mr Trump has also criticised the extent of UK involvement in the conflict more widely, accusing Sir Keir Starmer of being slow to offer support.

At Prime Minister’s Questions on Wednesday, Sir Keir defended his approach, insisting he would not allow UK forces to be drawn into a “wider war”.

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Announcing the plans to purchase extra missiles, Defence Secretary John Healey said: “Iran’s indiscriminate attacks are a threat to Britain, our allies and our partners in the region.

“That’s why our dedicated armed forces are taking defensive action in the Middle East.

“A nation’s armed forces are only as strong as the industry that supports them. I’m proud of how our military and industry are stepping up together – just as we are for Ukraine – to offer rapid support to our Gulf partners. This is the best of our British industry, innovators and military in action.”