Combined British-French Aerial Assault Targets Islamic State Munitions Store in the Syrian region

Royal Air Force Typhoon jets have operated alongside France's air force in a joint strike on an underground arms cache in Syrian territory operated by the Islamic State group (IS), as stated by the British defence ministry.

The facility, located using intelligence, was thought to be housing weapons and explosive materials, the release indicated, and was situated in mountains just above the ancient city of Palmyra in the heart of Syria.

"Our aircraft used Paveway IV guided bombs to strike a several entry passages leading to the facility... initial indications indicate the target was engaged successfully," the MoD said.

There was no evidence of any civilian impact in the attack on Saturday evening and all the aircraft returned safely, the defence officials confirmed.

The British jets were backed up by a Voyager tanker plane.

The Islamic State group - alternatively referred to as Daesh - imposed extremist governance over significant areas in Iraq and Syria until 2019.

"This operation shows British leadership, and resolve to operate in unison with allied nations, to eradicate any resurgence of IS and their violent and radical beliefs in the Middle East," UK Defence Secretary John Healey said.

UK warplanes have conducted patrols over Syria to "forestall any attempted comeback" of IS subsequent to its defeat at the battle of Baghuz in 2019, the MoD reported.

"I want to thank every member of British forces participating in this strike for their professionalism and their courage," the Defence Secretary commented. "They were among numerous UK service members on duty over the holidays. This mission, to take out militants who pose a risk to our security, highlights how UK forces are always on standby, throughout the year, ensuring Britain's security at home and powerful internationally."

Last December, the US military executed what it called a "major assault" against Daesh sites in the country, subsequent to an attack resulted in the deaths of two American soldiers and a civilian interpreter in Palmyra.

The U.N. reports Daesh still boasts roughly 5-7 thousand militants in Syria and Iraq.