UK sends new spy plane to 'Battle of Britain' against IS

July 16, 2015 23:37

Britain will send another spy plane to fly over Iraq and Syria in what Defence Secretary Michael Fallon called a "new Battle of Britain" today, as it edges towards joining US-led air strikes in Syria.

Fallon announced Britain would take delivery of a new Airseeker plane next month, which would "shortly after" be deployed to carry out reconnaissance of suspected Islamic State (IS) group targets.

"Today, with more warnings of threats to our citizens in Tunisia following the horrific events of two weeks ago, we're fighting a new Battle of Britain," he said during a speech in central London.

"Once again, against a fascist enemy, an enemy prepared to kill its enemies and civilians alike, it is the RAF spearheading our counter attack".

The Battle of Britain took place during World War II in 1940, pitching Britain's Royal Air Force (RAF) against its German counterpart, the Luftwaffe.

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