Practically 1,000 Ukrainian marines to return residence after ‘intense’ coaching from elite UK commandos

Almost 1,000 Ukrainian marines are set to return residence after greater than six months of “intense” coaching by the Royal Marines and Army Commandos.

They had been skilled in amphibious landings – utilizing inflatable boats to conduct seaside raids – and can now head to the frontline.

The coaching was introduced by Rishi Sunak throughout a go to in February by Ukraine’s President Zelenskyy, and that is the primary time amphibious coaching has been delivered to Ukrainian forces.

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The commandos had been skilled using Next Generation Light Anti-Tank Weapons (NLAW) and Stinger anti-aircraft missiles – in addition to using mortars and drones for reconnaissance, and explosive demolition of obstacles reminiscent of Dragon’s Teeth anti-vehicle fortifications.

Although a few of the Ukrainian trainees already had expertise within the armed forces or on the frontline, many are civilian volunteers with no navy background.

One of the lately skilled Ukrainian marines stated the course from the Royal Marines was “far more intense that I expected”, and added: “All the way through, our British instructors have been beside us, showing us how to move and how to work together in a small team – this will make a difference when we return home to Ukraine.”

Over 20,000 Ukrainians have acquired coaching from the UK to date, and the British authorities dedicated to coaching 20,000 extra in the beginning of 2023.

Defence Secretary Ben Wallace stated: “The UK has led the best way in coaching the Armed Force of Ukraine, offering world-leading coaching in frontline fight expertise to greater than 20,000 of Ukraine’s Army recruits by Operation Interflex.

“This programme of training, delivered by elite British commandos, will support Ukraine to build its own distinct marine force and expand its capability to operate in a maritime environment.”