UK Accelerates Military Equipment Deliveries to Ukraine

The UK is set to provide additional vital artillery support to Ukraine in its fight against Russia’s illegal invasion, reaffirming its commitment of £3 billion annually in military assistance until 2030/31 and beyond, as long as necessary.

This announcement coincides with the UK’s efforts to expedite military support, with the new government on track to deliver 16 AS90 artillery units instead of the pledged 12. So far, ten units have been delivered, with six more scheduled for delivery in the coming weeks. These artillery pieces are crucial for providing cover for Ukrainian troops and targeting key Russian positions.

Additionally, the government has established a new joint unit within the Ministry of Defence (MoD) and the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO), led by Foreign Secretary David Lammy and Defence Secretary John Healey. This unit will integrate expertise and drive a comprehensive government approach to supporting Ukraine.

In tandem with these efforts, the Defence Ministry is launching a direct cyber pathway to enhance the UK’s cyber resilience. This initiative includes tailored selection processes and basic training requirements, creating direct entry routes into cyber careers within Defence. It also allows for lateral entry opportunities for specialists midway through their cyber careers, thereby broadening Defence’s appeal and increasing workforce diversity, which will complement other trades within the services rather than compete with them.

Furthermore, the Government has announced the scrapping or updating of more than 100 outdated policies since July. These changes include removing restrictions on recruiting individuals with conditions such as hay fever, eczema, and acne, as well as certain fully healed injuries, with ongoing efforts to modernise recruitment processes.