The length of the British combat course has increased from three to five weeks, British media reports
Britain will “significantly expand” its training program for Ukrainian soldiers in a bid to support Kyiv in its ongoing conflict with Russia, Sky News reported on Monday.
According to Sky, the British military is extending the course of combat from three to five weeks, and could potentially provide Ukraine with tens of thousands of new troops to join the hostilities. In addition to the UK, the extended training will also be provided by instructors from eight other countries, including New Zealand, Sweden and the Netherlands, the report said.
Around 4,700 Ukrainian personnel have reportedly already completed the course at bases in the north, south-west and south-east of England since it began in June.
Ben Wallace, Britain’s defense secretary, told Sky News that the training has “evolved rapidly” and the decision to extend the course aims to “provide the best possible preparation for Ukrainian soldiers who will soon be in active combat operations.”
According to the outlet, as it currently stands, the program is based on the UK’s basic infantry training and allows participants to increase weapons handling skills, learn first aid, field craft and how to properly organize a patrol.
The additional two weeks are spent honing more advanced skills such as trench and urban warfare, vehicle-mounted operations and include exercises in simulated combat environments, the report adds.
The decision to expand the training program comes on the heels of previous similar activities, with the Royal Navy instructing Ukrainian sailors in Scotland.
(RT.com)
Source: sn.dk