RAF Typhoon FGR4s have joined forces with France's air force in a joint strike targeting an underground arms cache in Syrian territory employed by the Daesh militant organization, according to the UK's MoD.
The facility, identified by intelligence, was thought to be storing arms and explosives, the release indicated, and was situated in mountains just above the historic site of Palmyra in the heart of Syria.
"The RAF jets utilized Paveway IV guided bombs to hit a series of access tunnels down to the depot... initial indications suggest the strike was effective," the MoD said.
There was no indication of any harm to civilians in the operation on Saturday evening and all the aircraft returned safely, the defence officials confirmed.
The Typhoon fighters were backed up by a Voyager aerial refuelling aircraft.
The Islamic State group - also known as the so-called Islamic State - established jihadist rule over large swathes of both Syria and Iraq before its territorial defeat in 2019.
"This strike shows the UK's leading role, and commitment to stand shoulder to shoulder with our allies, to eradicate any resurgence of the terrorist group and their violent and radical beliefs in the area," Britain's Defence Chief the minister remarked.
RAF aircraft have conducted surveillance missions over Syria to "prevent any attempted comeback" of the group after its defeat at the battle of Baghuz in 2019, the authorities noted.
"I extend gratitude to every member of our armed forces who took part in this operation for their skill and their valour," he added. "They were among numerous British personnel on duty over the festive period. This action, to remove terrorist threats who endanger our security, highlights how British military are ready to step up, continuously, ensuring Britain's security domestically and powerful internationally."
In December, the US military executed what it termed a "massive strike" targeting Islamic State objectives in Syria, after an attack claimed the lives of two American soldiers and a local interpreter in Palmyra.
The United Nations estimates Islamic State still has an estimated 5,000 to 7,000 militants in Syria and Iraq.
