The UK has a long-standing maritime presence in the region.

Defence Minister Mark Lancaster has announced a new recruitment drive for Team Tempest, with the number of people working on the programme set to more than double over the next two years.

The Prime Minister met with members of Joint Forces Command personnel and their families.

The Ministry of Defence is developing cutting-edge laser and radio frequency weapons which have the potential to revolutionise the battlefield.

The Prime Minister has announced that the UK’s Chinook helicopters and personnel currently stationed with the French counter-terrorism operation in Northern Mali will extend their tour by a minimum of six months