Why is HMS Dragon taking so long to get to Cyprus?

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The warship HMS Dragon is now not expected to leave for the Mediterranean until next week to begin its mission to defend a British military base in Cyprus from attacks by Iran.

The ship is one of six Type 45 air defence destroyers in the Royal Navy and one of three that aren't currently out of service.

It is well-equipped to deal with Iran's Shahed-type drones, so why has it taken so long to send it to the region?

Niall speaks to defence analyst Tom Sharpe, who also spent 27 years in the Royal Navy, about the military capabilities of HMS Dragon, the state of the Navy currently, and when the warship might finally arrive in the Med.

Have you got a question for Niall? Email the show - why@sky.uk

(c) Sky News 2026: Why is HMS Dragon taking so long to get to Cyprus?