In a press release, the UK’s Ministry of Defence confirmed the extension of its training program for Ukrainian personnel until the end of 2025. The program, part of Operation Interflex, was originally set to conclude in 2025, but Defence Secretary John Healey announced its extension as part of the UK’s ongoing commitment to support Ukraine.
The program, conducted at various locations across the UK, gathers volunteer recruits from Ukraine’s Armed Forces, many of whom have little to no prior military experience, and equips them with the skills needed for frontline combat. The training helps Ukrainian forces expedite their deployments, rebuild their numbers, and bolster their resilience as they continue defending their nation.
Over a minimum five-week period, recruits are trained in weapon handling, battlefield first aid, the Law of Armed Conflict, patrolling tactics, and rural environment combat operations.
In addition to army training, Royal Air Force instructors have been training Ukrainian pilots to fly F-16 fighter jets. The pilots received basic flight training, including aircraft handling and navigation, along with English language training to facilitate future instruction on F-16s with other NATO countries.
During a recent meeting, discussions also focused on how the UK would further increase its support in the coming months, confirming that £300 million worth of artillery ammunition is set to be delivered by the end of this year.
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