Specifically on artillery, I am accelerating the mobile fires programme so that, instead of delivering in the 2030s, it will do so during the current decade. We will also build apace on the Army’s modernisation programme. Even as we gift Challenger 2 tanks, I shall at the same time be reviewing the number of Challenger 3 conversions, to consider whether the lessons of Ukraine suggest that we need a larger tank fleet. We will be the first country to donate western main battle tanks, and we will be bringing a further squadron of our own Challenger tanks to higher readiness in place of the squadron sent.
That requires a new level of support: the combat power only achieved by combinations of main battle tank squadrons, operating alongside divisional artillery groups, and further deep precision fires enabling the targeting of Russian logistics and command nodes at greater distance. President Putin cannot win, but he is equally certain that he can continue inflicting this wanton violence and human suffering until his forces are ejected from their defensive positions and expelled from the country. It means that it can go from resisting to expelling Russian forces from Ukrainian soil. “Today’s package is an important increase to Ukraine’s capabilities. This decision comes as the United Kingdom is preparing to provide Ukraine with 14 Challenger 2 tanks as part of a significant package of military support aimed at enhancing Ukraine’s capabilities.
The original plan, announced in 2021, involved upgrading 148 Challenger 2 tanks to Challenger 3s and retiring the remaining 79 vehicles. The review will assess whether the experiences of Ukraine necessitate an expansion of the tank fleet. Defence Secretary Ben Wallace has announced plans to review the planned conversion of the British Army’s Challenger 2 main battle tanks to Challenger 3s.
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