Strikes on a British military base in the Indian Ocean — also used by the U. S. Air Force — have reignited concerns over the true range of Iranian missiles. Analysts at The Telegraph argue that the incident demonstrates Tehran’s ability to hit targets at vast distances, potentially extending as far as London.

The publication points out that the key question is not only how such a long-range strike was carried out, but also what it implies strategically. If the same launch systems were redirected, London could fall within their reach.

The authors highlight the United Kingdom’s vulnerability to ballistic threats. Even U.S. missile defense systems deployed in Eastern Europe, equipped with SM-3 interceptors, are not seen as providing full protection for the British capital.

According to the paper’s assessment, the country lacks sufficient defensive coverage. Systems comparable to the Patriot комплексы used by Germany and Poland, or a domestic equivalent like France’s, could theoretically be positioned around London to improve protection. As it stands, the analysts suggest, British airspace remains largely exposed.

The discussion follows Tehran’s announcement on March 21 that it had launched two ballistic missiles toward the Diego Garcia base in the Indian Ocean. The facility is located on the Chagos Archipelago, more than 5,000 kilometers from Iranian territory.