DUP leader Gavin Robinson MP criticised the UK government's pace in deploying naval assets to the Eastern Mediterranean. He spoke during Prime Minister's Questions after a drone struck RAF Akrotiri base in Cyprus early on Monday.

Robinson voiced support for the armed forces but raised concerns over the response to deteriorating Middle East security. He stated adversaries monitor UK reactions to regional events.

The Type 45 destroyer HMS Dragon, requested for the area, requires over a week to reach Cyprus and defend British interests. The vessel loaded ammunition at Portsmouth on Wednesday and expects a several-day voyage.

Royal Navy Wildcat helicopters equipped with anti-drone missiles deploy within days to support existing RAF Typhoons, F-35B jets, counter-drone teams, radar and refuelling aircraft.

Robinson welcomed plans to lift defence spending to 2.5 percent of GDP by 2027. He argued the timeline ignores rising volatility and links instability to climbing energy prices and market shifts.