Britain to train tens of thousands of Ukrainian soldiers - Sky News
That's according to Sky News, Ukrinform reports.
The number of Ukrainian citizens who will take part in the training has been increased to "tens of thousands," and the combat course has been extended in length from three to five weeks.
More of the training will be kept in the UK, away from the threat of Russian missile strikes.
According to the report, some 4,700 personnel have already been through the training at military bases in the north, southwest and southeast of England since it began in June, with commanders intending to continue the support for as long as Ukraine needs new troops to fight Russia's invasion.
Military instructors from eight other countries, including New Zealand, Sweden and the Netherlands, have joined with their British counterparts to provide the expanded training mission.
UK Defense Secretary Ben Wallace said it demonstrated "our shared resolve to support the Armed Forces of Ukraine."
Wallace, who has paid four visits to check up on the training, said that he was witnessing first-hand the courage and determination of Ukrainians.
"We must do everything we can to help them defend their homes against this illegal and unprovoked Russian invasion, and will continue to do so for as long as it takes. We stand with Ukraine," he said.
He also noted that the training course had "developed rapidly, and we are now extending it to five weeks to provide the best possible preparation for Ukrainian soldiers who will soon be in active combat operations."
The main course on offer is based on the UK's basic infantry training. It includes weapons-handling, battlefield first aid, fieldcraft and patrol tactics.
The extra two weeks will allow for more advanced training, such as trench and urban warfare, vehicle-mounted operations, and battlefield exercises in simulated combat environments.
The training is being conducted by elements from the British Army's 11 Security Force Assistance Brigade and the RAF Regiment, alongside international instructors.
Photo: UK Ministry of Defense
