A formidable joint operation by U.S. and British naval forces successfully repelled what is being described as the most extensive Houthi militant attack in the Red Sea to date on Jan. 10. The operation saw the interception and destruction of 21 drones and missiles, aimed toward the southern Red Sea, where several international merchant vessels were transiting.

At the forefront of this defense was the British Royal Navy’s HMS Diamond, a Type 45 destroyer, which played a pivotal role in the operation. The HMS Diamond, operating alongside U.S. warships, deployed its advanced missile defense systems, successfully shooting down several of the incoming threats. British Defence Secretary Grant Shapps noted the significance of the operation and the crucial role played by the HMS Diamond in ensuring the safety of international shipping lanes. He hinted at further measures that might be taken by Britain and its allies to protect these critical maritime routes.

The U.S. Central Command confirmed Tuesday night that the coordinated efforts of the U.S. and UK forces led to no reported injuries or damage, despite the scale of the attack. The operation marked the 26th Houthi offensive against commercial shipping in the Red Sea since Nov. 19, highlighting the persisting threat posed by the Iranian-backed militants in this strategically vital region. U.S. Central Command also confirmed that a group of U.S. warships, fighter jets, and the Diamond successfully intercepted eighteen suicide drones and three missiles fired from Yemen towards international shipping lanes, where “dozens” of vessels were traveling at full speed.

According to reports, the merchant vessels were of various international origins, carrying diverse cargo crucial for global trade.