British Air Force Typhoon fighter aircraft have conducted a mission with France's air force in a combined operation against an subterranean weapons facility in Syria operated by the Islamic State group (IS), according to the UK's MoD.
The site, identified by reconnaissance, was believed to be containing munitions and bombs, the statement said, and was positioned in hills just to the north of the ancient city of Palmyra in the heart of Syria.
"The RAF jets utilized Paveway IV guided bombs to target a series of approach shafts down to the site... initial indications are that the target was engaged successfully," the ministry announced.
There was no evidence of any harm to civilians in the attack on Saturday evening and every plane involved made a safe return, the ministry further stated.
The Typhoon FGR4s were backed up by a Voyager aerial refuelling aircraft.
IS - alternatively referred to as ISIS - enforced extremist governance over significant areas in Iraq and Syria prior to its 2019 collapse.
"This operation demonstrates the UK's leading role, and determination to work closely with allied nations, to eradicate any revival of Daesh and their violent and radical beliefs in the region," Britain's Defence Chief the Defence Secretary stated.
British military aircraft have conducted surveillance missions over Syria to "prevent any attempted resurgence" of Islamic State following its routing at the climactic battle in Baghuz in the year 2019, the authorities noted.
"I must thank all the members of British forces participating in this mission for their expertise and their courage," Healey added. "They were part of numerous British personnel deployed over the holidays. This mission, to eliminate militants who pose a risk to our safety, demonstrates how UK forces are prepared to act, throughout the year, ensuring Britain's security at home and powerful internationally."
In December, the American forces executed what it called a "massive strike" against Daesh sites in Syria, after an assault claimed the lives of two American soldiers and a local interpreter in the Palmyra area.
The United Nations says Daesh still maintains roughly 5-7 thousand fighters in both countries.
