British Air Force Typhoon jets have joined forces with France's air force in a coordinated attack against an hidden munitions depot in Syrian territory employed by the Islamic State group (IS), as stated by the UK's MoD.
The site, pinpointed through reconnaissance, was thought to be housing weapons and explosive materials, the statement said, and was situated in hills just to the north of the historic site of Palmyra in the heart of Syria.
"Our fighter planes employed Paveway IV guided bombs to strike a several approach shafts leading to the depot... initial indications suggest the target was engaged successfully," the MoD said.
There was no indication of any harm to civilians in the operation late on Saturday and every plane involved returned to base without incident, the MoD added.
The Typhoon fighters were assisted by a Voyager aerial refuelling aircraft.
Daesh - alternatively referred to as Daesh - established jihadist rule over significant areas in Iraq and Syria until 2019.
"This operation underscores the UK's leading role, and resolve to work closely with our partners, to stamp out any revival of the terrorist group and their dangerous and violent ideologies in the Middle East," Britain's Defence Chief John Healey said.
UK warplanes have carried out surveillance missions over Syrian airspace to "prevent any efforts to regroup" of IS subsequent to its military defeat at the climactic battle in Baghuz in 2019, the ministry said.
"I extend gratitude to all the members of the UK armed forces who took part in this operation for their expertise and their bravery," the Defence Secretary added. "They were part of thousands of UK service members on duty over the festive period. This operation, to eliminate militants who endanger our safety, demonstrates how UK forces are ready to step up, all year round, keeping Britain secure domestically and powerful internationally."
Last December, the United States armed forces executed what it called a "massive strike" targeting Daesh sites in the country, following an attack resulted in the deaths of two American soldiers and a civilian interpreter in Palmyra.
The United Nations estimates Daesh still has an estimated 5,000 to 7,000 militants in Syria and Iraq.
