Ukrainian tank crews have completed training on Challenger 2
tanks in the UK and have returned home to continue their fight
against Russia’s illegal and unprovoked invasion.
The training began shortly after the announcement in January that
the UK would donate 14 Challenger 2 tanks and accompanying
ammunition and spare parts to aid Ukraine. UK military trainers
spent several weeks training Ukrainian personnel how to operate
and fight with the tanks. Instruction included how to command,
drive and work together as a Challenger 2 tank crew and
effectively identify and engage targets.
The Challenger 2 tank marks a step change in capability for the
Armed Forces of Ukraine, ensuring they are better able to protect
their crews and offering them some of the most modern and
sophisticated gunnery systems in the world.
To mark the conclusion of training Ukrainian Challenger 2 crews,
the Ministry of Defence has today released a 30 minute
documentary on YouTube. The documentary shows an unprecedented
behind the scenes look at the training.
Defence Secretary said:
It is truly inspiring to witness the determination of Ukrainian
soldiers having completed their training on British Challenger 2
tanks on British soil.
They return to their homeland better equipped, but to no less
danger. We will continue to stand by them and do all we can to
support Ukraine for as long as it takes.
Lieutenant Colonel John Stone, who oversaw the training
mission said:
It has been a privilege for the Combat Manoeuvre Centre team to
deliver this training to our Ukrainian partners. We have all been
hugely impressed with the level of competence displayed and have
no doubt that that our friends will use the Challenger 2 tanks
most effectively in the battles to come as they fight to defend
their homeland.
A Ukrainian tank commander featured in the film
said:
I fight for my future, for future of my country and for future of
my family. We will fight. This tank for us is like a diamond, I
think it is the best tank in the world.
The UK is sending Challenger 2 tanks, which will soon be in the
hands of the Armed Forces of Ukraine.
Support to Ukraine from the international community has been
unwavering since Russia’s full-scale invasion over a year ago, on
24 February 2022. The UK has trained and equipped the Armed
Forces of Ukraine with a range of capabilities to help them
defend their territory including anti-tank weapons, armoured
vehicles, and air defence systems.
