Today's defence related news includes coverage of Armed Forces personnel posted abroad this Christmas and the Prime Minister's visit to RAF Akrotiri in Cyprus.
Seasons greetings: Troops abroad write home for Christmas
The Sun, Daily Mirror, Daily Star, Press & Journal, The Scotsman, and Daily Record all report on UK Armed Forces personnel serving abroad this Christmas. Media report on the heart-warming messages that serving personnel have sent back to the UK, with soldiers based in Cyprus, Afghanistan and South Sudan sending best wishes to family and friends back in the UK, as well as posing for festive snaps around the world. The Sun and Mirror feature images showing troops abroad keeping the Christmas spirit alive with trees, decorations and Santa outfits.
You can read about the Defence Secretary Gavin Williamson's visit to troops deployed in Poland here.
Interview with UK Armed Forces Imam
The Daily Mail carries an interview with Asim Hafiz, the Islamic advisor to the the UK Armed Forces. In the interview Mr Hafiz urges British Muslims to join the military and stamp out extremism and says that British Muslims serving in Muslim-majority countries can help prevent violence and ultimately save lives.
Prime Minister's visit to troops in Cyprus
The Daily Express, Daily Telegraph, Daily Mail, Daily Mirror and The Sun all cover the PM's visit to Cyprus yesterday, where Mrs May praised the efforts of the UK personnel in the fight against Daesh. Speaking to troops at RAF Akrotiri in Cyprus, the Prime Minister said that the terror group no longer held significant territory in Iraq and Syria and thanked RAF personnel for their efforts in protecting British citizens at home.
You can read the Prime Minister's address to troops at RAF Akrotiri here.
Second aircraft carrier passes major milestone
Daily Express and The Sun report that the Royal Navy’s second new aircraft carrier had passed a major milestone this week when it was tested in water for the first time and floated. The HMS Prince of Wales was floated at a ceremony at Rosyth in Scotland on Thursday night as water was let into its dry dock.
Image of the day
