The United Kingdom’s Defence Secretary, Ben Wallace, announced on Thursday during a meeting with fellow defence ministers at the Tapa army base in Estonia, that the country plans to provide military support to Ukraine.

The support package includes the provision of 600 Brimstone missiles, as well as Challenger tanks, to assist Ukraine in its ongoing conflict with Russia.

“I can say we’re also going to send another 600 Brimstone missiles into theatre which will be incredibly important in helping Ukraine dominate the battlefield,” he said.

Here’s the full rundown.

“The United Kingdom’s accelerated package consists of a squadron of Challenger 2 tanks with armoured recovery and repair vehicles; AS90 self-propelled 155mm guns, while preserving their commitment in Estonia; hundreds more armoured and protected vehicles; a manoeuvre support package, including minefield breaching and bridging capabilities; dozens more un-crewed aerial systems to support Ukrainian artillery; another 100,000 artillery rounds; hundreds more sophisticated missiles including GMLRS rockets, Starstreak air defence missiles, and medium range air defence missiles; 600 Brimstone anti-tank munitions; an equipment support package of spares to refurbish up to a hundred Ukrainian tanks and infantry fighting vehicles.

The package is further augmented by continuing basic training and junior leadership training for the AFU in the UK with 9 International partners. With the aim of training around a further 20 000 AFU personnel in 2023.

The UK is also coordinating the International Fund for Ukraine which has raised almost £600M with partners. The first package of support from the fund will be announced shortly.”

Avatar photo
George has a degree in Cyber Security from Glasgow Caledonian University and has a keen interest in naval and cyber security matters and has appeared on national radio and television to discuss current events. George is on Twitter at @geoallison
Subscribe
Notify of
guest

237 Comments
oldest
newest
Inline Feedbacks
View all comments
Puffing Billy
Puffing Billy
1 year ago

Wonderfull news! In the defence of the UK the frontline against Russia is in the Ukraine. Meanwhile Germany sits on it’s arse and prevaricates on the supply of Leopard tanks.

Cymbeline
Cymbeline
1 year ago
Reply to  Puffing Billy

I don’t know if Germany are or have positioned themselves as the leaders of the EU militarily but they have shown themselves to be severely lacking in this respect. When it calls for big decisions they can’t make the call. They should pass the baton to Poland and let them get on with it.

ABCRodney
ABCRodney
1 year ago
Reply to  Cymbeline

How can Germany realistically expect anyone to follow their leadership in military matters ? They are not a permanent member of the UN Security Council, they are not a nuclear power and are completely spineless.
Besides which why would anyone with a single brain cell follow a country with over a century of complete 100% Military failure ?

Just pointing out the obvious 🤔

dan
dan
1 year ago
Reply to  ABCRodney

Trump was the only POTUS with the guts to tell Germany, Merkel, to pull her finger out of her arse and start providing for their own defense. Merkel and the liberal media just ignored Trump. Just another thing Trump was right about.

Sean
Sean
1 year ago
Reply to  dan

Even a stopped clock is right occasionally…

Klonkie
Klonkie
1 year ago
Reply to  Sean

twice a day in fact !😀

Derek
Derek
1 year ago
Reply to  Klonkie

So Trump was right in his decisions twice a day, every day … for 4 years! A nice compliment to him, Sean.

Klonkie
Klonkie
1 year ago
Reply to  Derek

you go that right Derek, it’s a good point.

Monkey spanker
Monkey spanker
1 year ago
Reply to  dan

Trump only repeated what people had been saying for years and tried to own it.
The message was directed at a lot more nato members including Germany as well.
Alot of nato countries never actually thought they would have to use armed forces. The silliest mistake politicians make is to think everyone in the world thinks and acts the same way they do.

Spyinthesky
Spyinthesky
1 year ago
Reply to  Monkey spanker

Frightening now to think how naive so many have been. Again today we get the ‘no nuclear armed Country will allow itself to lose a conventional war’ from Putin’s attack dog Medvedev. Equally the Foreign Ministry claims it will not allow military infrastructure to exist close up ‘threatening’ its borders. So it seems every time it expands it’s borders it’s effectively saying anyone beyond those borders (didn’t state a distance) must disarm or it seems they will be threatened and invaded in yet a new ‘defensive’ war which ultimately if they look like losing will use nuclear weapons. It seems… Read more »

Andy
Andy
1 year ago
Reply to  Spyinthesky

They lost in Afghanistan, so their bluff has already been called on that one.

Barry Larking
Barry Larking
1 year ago
Reply to  Monkey spanker

👍

FieldLander
FieldLander
1 year ago
Reply to  dan

Europe is not just Germany.
Do not forget that Trump drooled over Putin. Would he have spent a penny on Ukraine? I think not.

AlexS
AlexS
1 year ago
Reply to  FieldLander

Would he have spent a penny on Ukraine?

Maybe you should get information of who was the first US president to send lethal equipment to Ukraine…

Trump was right about a lot of stuff. He was just clumsy and his worst enemy.

Obama: Putin invades Ukraine Crimea
Trump: nothing
Biden: Putin invades remaining Ukraine

Spyinthesky
Spyinthesky
1 year ago
Reply to  FieldLander

All part of Putin’s plan, he was banking on Trump being President in which case Ukraine would likely have now been vanquished and he was hoping the Senate and HofR would have gone in an avalanche to Trump acolytes and now that failed he is simply holding out sustaining the war hoping for Trump or a Trumpalike in the White House forcing Ukraine to give up half its Country under the banner America First under the delusion it doesn’t effect them despite it in reality creating new threats to Europe, threatens the Atlantic Alliance only delays Russian attacks on Ukraine… Read more »

Barry Larking
Barry Larking
1 year ago
Reply to  FieldLander

Before Trump tried to get around Putin, Merkel had already sucked blacking off Putins shoes.

Spyinthesky
Spyinthesky
1 year ago
Reply to  dan

In my view probably the only thing he was right about. At one stage Germany only had 7 Typhoons flyable, barely any tanks too so yes it was right to give them one big kick, their maniacal faith in Russian political and military intentions despite all the evidence to the contrary while being happy to sell its weapons to others to benefit its ultra powerful economy while letting others often less well off preserving their independence. Totally mad and unsustainable and right that a U.S. President (shame a French on didn’t too) told them how it is, even if he… Read more »

George Parker
George Parker
1 year ago
Reply to  dan

This Ukraine war would never have happened if President Trump was still in power. No show of weakness in Afghanistan, that empowered Putin.

Tams
Tams
1 year ago
Reply to  George Parker

Mate, pulling out of Afghanistan (and at such short notice) was his deal.

The Biden adminstration even had to extend the deadline, infuriating the Taliban.

Derek
Derek
1 year ago
Reply to  Tams

Completely wrong I’m afraid. Trump negotiated a US contingent remaining at it’s base but pulling out a large number. Biden pulled them ALL out with no notice of the change of plan – to the utter shock of their Allies and the Afghan Government. Facts, dear boy, bring light!

dp
dp
1 year ago
Reply to  George Parker

Indeed. Under Trump, the Ukraine wouldn’t have got the support it got to fight back. Without Biden’s support leading the way – and – early warnings to Ukraine – Russia would likely have succeeded with its initial attack.

dp
dp
1 year ago
Reply to  dp

So, there wouldn’t have been a war…

George Parker
George Parker
1 year ago
Reply to  dp

There wouldn’t have been a war because either; the Russians would have backed down in the face of a strong US stance. Or a solution would have been found, removing any alleged justification Putin had to invade Ukraine.

You are obviously aware of the well recorded persecution of Russian speakers and ethnic Russians by Kiev/Ukrainian nationalists, post 2014. It was the justification given to the Russian people for the military intervention.

George Parker
George Parker
1 year ago
Reply to  dp

As I recall, it was President Trump who actually delivered Ukraine actual military aid, rather than just talk about it. He did not try to blackmail Ukraine by insisting they first sack the man investigating Hunter Biden’s corrupt dealing with the Burisma oligarchs. That would be Russian oligarchs BTW. The quid pro Joe even boasted about it in front of TV cameras!

Posse Comitatus
Posse Comitatus
1 year ago
Reply to  George Parker

You mean the ‘deal’ in Doha that he, er ,”negotiated” with the Taliban?

Ironically, you could be correct though, had Trump still been in power last February, it is most likely that he would have shared US military and intelligence assessments of Ukraine with Putin, withheld aid to Ukraine, blocked sanctions against Russia and probably tried to pulled the US out of Nato . He would have facilitated his boss Putin in any way he could, thereby enabling Russian forces to overwhelm Ukraine.

George Parker
George Parker
1 year ago

Not exactly the deal because quid pro Joe is a weak corrupt senile old fool. You will remember the quote from Pres. Trump. “If bad things happen, we’ll go back with a force like no-one’s ever seen.”
ISIS know what that feels like. When the US military is ordered to eliminate an enemy and given free rein to do what is necessary. The Afghani Taliban and Al Qaida do not.

Posse Comitatus
Posse Comitatus
1 year ago
Reply to  George Parker

True to a point, the US military, if given free rein would destroy all opposition. However, I wouldn’t put too much credence in Trump’s statements, not only was he outflank by the Taliban in his Doha deal, but he also abruptly terminated the US military campaign against ISIS, not for any operational reasons, but most likely because he wanted to suck up to Putin.

Defence Secretary Mattis , someone who knows what he’s talking about, considered it one of the most catastrophic decisions taken. “Felony stupid ” I think was his term for it.

Andy
Andy
1 year ago
Reply to  George Parker

Trump was Putin’s glove puppet and a lot of his supporters are still pro-Putin. It was his work to undermine NATO and his “run away” policy in Afghanistan that gave Putin the go ahead to do what he wanted. Trump praised Putin for the Invasion of Crimea. He sided with Russian lies when they shot downan airliner. He couldn’t even outwit the fat boy with the bad haircut in Korea. Note that it is Trump supporting Republicans who have attempted to stop military aid to Ukraine. Biden just didn’t reverse the Trump initiatives because he is almost as isolationist as… Read more »

George Parker
George Parker
1 year ago
Reply to  Andy

The only word applicable to your comment is delusional. Pres. Trump and Sec. Def Pompeo were tough and realistic when dealing with Russia.

Derek
Derek
1 year ago
Reply to  George Parker

Yes, George, the Trump-Russia collusion hoax, perpetrated on the American people by the Democrats continues to get traction amongst the unread. Now the Republicans have the House, this deep and vey real conspiracy against Trump’s Presidency will be fully exposed.

George Parker
George Parker
1 year ago
Reply to  Derek

Good.

Netking
Netking
1 year ago
Reply to  George Parker

Do you trump cult member really think we forgot this?

Trump calling Putin a genius for invading Ukraine.

https://www.politico.com/news/2022/02/23/trump-putin-ukraine-invasion-00010923

All the times publicly beclowned himself waxing Putin’s behind is almost too many to count.

George Parker
George Parker
1 year ago
Reply to  Netking

Cult member! That’s rich coming from a rabid TDS sufferer. Trading insults aside. A leader of a nation annexes a large part of a neighbouring country Crimea, without firing a shot or being opposed with force by the sitting US President Obama. I would describe that as a piece of evil genius too. Akin to reoccupying the Rhineland, annexing Austria (Anschluss), taking the Sudetenland and then Czechoslovakia. Right under the noses of the allies. FYI, Allied generals admired the achievements of Rommel and Kesselring too, without accusations of being their best buddies. It just so happened that Donetsk and Luhansk… Read more »

Netking
Netking
1 year ago
Reply to  George Parker

Do you have anything factual to respond with other than talking points from the right wing swamp? I won’t turn this into a political debate on a defence site but your entire post is so easily disproven it’s hard to believe that someone in 2023 is still repeating the rubbish that was shown to be rubbish several years ago.

George Parker
George Parker
1 year ago
Reply to  Netking

Every statement is factually correct.
Your righteous indignation is as bitter and twisted as your politics. You have a nice day now.

Netking
Netking
1 year ago
Reply to  George Parker

Hahaha

You didn’t rebut even one of the things that is publicly documented for everyone to see. Avoided them at all cost. You got nothing huh? lol.

You have a lovely day as well.

George Parker
George Parker
1 year ago
Reply to  Netking

Every statement made was factually correct. If you think otherwise then support your assertions with evidence. Not adhominems.

For example, the cargo planes loaded with cash that the Obama/Biden syndicate supplied to Iran. It is true, they admitted to it. Even negotiating with iranian terrorists in the process. So nameless individual, either put up or shut up soft lad.

Lazerbenabba
Lazerbenabba
1 year ago
Reply to  dan

Why would Merkel extract her finger when she enjoys that position too much.

George Parker
George Parker
1 year ago
Reply to  Lazerbenabba

Nice one.

Graham Moore
Graham Moore
1 year ago
Reply to  ABCRodney

They also fail to maintain readiness of their armed forces’ equipment.

Whlgrubber
Whlgrubber
1 year ago
Reply to  ABCRodney

And what about France? Have they got nothing to offer?

ABCRodney
ABCRodney
1 year ago
Reply to  Whlgrubber

Short of the Leclerc MBT the next best thing is the AMX10R which France is offering to the Ukraine. The Leclerc is a good tank but untried in real combat and isn’t as numerous as the Leopard 2. Quite simply the Leopard is the best fit for them, spares, ammunition and lots of countries able to supply some. All they need is Germany to understand that the best way to ensure the safety of Germany is to help the UA reduce the threat. Personally I’d take a completely different tack and ask Germany if they are willing to supply the… Read more »

Mike
Mike
1 year ago
Reply to  Cymbeline

Totally agree. Sadly however, once the dust settles and 🇪🇺 begins to uparm, I can see Germany being first in line to sell its wares. And many will buy.

Steve
Steve
1 year ago
Reply to  Cymbeline

Not sure what is going on with Germany and the tanks, but it’s not just them. The US has a large stockpile of tanks it could offer but it’s not doing so. I really don’t get the nervousness of it, with the amount of kit already supplied there is no question now that it would cause any response from Russia as that would have happened months ago. The only thing that makes sense is they are nervous that the tanks won’t perform as good as promised when actually battle tested against a near peer opponent.

Jon
Jon
1 year ago
Reply to  Steve

Perhaps the nervousness is Russia getting it hands on modern NATO tanks, or wondering what Putin might do if the Ukrainians threw the Russians out? That would finish Putin, unless he pulled an unexpected rabbit out the hat first. Maybe even a nuclear one.

FWIW, I can’t see that happening and think he’ll be forced to the negotiating table to agree to leave, with some face-saving concessions to crow about.

Last edited 1 year ago by Jon
Barry Larking
Barry Larking
1 year ago
Reply to  Jon

Hello Jon. Before 1945 and subsequently, all conflicts including some civil conflicts, were resolved by negotiation. The problem here is Putin wants the lot and has trumpeted this aim plus advances against other countries. He’d have to go and then a successor negotiate. But I cannot see this happening at present.

So far, I judge the U.K.-U.S. position is Putin is sawing steadily at the branch that supports him and that suits them. Perhaps not poor Ukraine.

Putin is a bastard and has to be stopped, sooner rather than later.

George Parker
George Parker
1 year ago
Reply to  Barry Larking

Putin’s only justification to his own people for military action in Ukraine. Has been the well reported (if a little exaggerated) persecution of ethnic Russians and other minorities, particularly Romani and Rusyns – note the spelling. By right wing nationalists, who are openly following the doctrine of Stepan Bandera. Hence the NAZI and denazification propaganda. Clever really. Col. Putin is behaving exactly as expected for someone proud of his training and indoctrination. Once a KGB officer, always a KGB officer. The justification/foundation for Putin’s actions are also the weakness of his position. Ending ethnic persecution by partition or relocation is… Read more »

Barry Larking
Barry Larking
1 year ago
Reply to  George Parker

Thank you this measured response. I completely agree with two of your points: Discrimination against ethnic Russian communities must be part of the international conversation. I don’t believe any sane person wishes for a ‘drive on Moscow’. That too can be easily made plain.

George Parker
George Parker
1 year ago
Reply to  Barry Larking

You are very welcome Barry. We know that no sane person wishes to do it. But the important thing is how it is spun to the Russian people. What they believe will determine what happens next. It is one thing to explain military intentions to astute, crafty Kremlin negotiators. But making it plain to the average Russian citizen may not be as easy as you think. Western democracies generally do very badly in propaganda wars against more totalitarian regimes. Modern Russia and it’s people have better access to the web than ever before. However, it is a double edged sword… Read more »

Graham Moore
Graham Moore
1 year ago
Reply to  Barry Larking

The UKR President is also not keen to negotiate – and I can see why.

Spyinthesky
Spyinthesky
1 year ago
Reply to  Steve

Well fact is even the US struggled to support the Abrams in the gulf war and it was surrounded by oil. 3 miles to the gallon and horrendously difficult to maintain. So the logic that the Ukrainians would seriously struggle to operate them in their environment is totally valid. That said why not offer 15 to 20 or so of their redundant ones more as a Token to force Germany to at least allow the 5 to 7 other Countries to supply Leopards. If nothing else the Abrams like the Challengers would make a great defensive or reserve line north… Read more »

John Hartley
John Hartley
1 year ago
Reply to  Spyinthesky

M60A3 would be good for Ukraine. Perhaps the US swaps surplus M1A1 for Taiwan’s M60A3, then gives M60A3 to Ukraine?

Cymbeline
Cymbeline
1 year ago
Reply to  Steve

I’m not sure the Abrahams would be a good fit for Ukraine, I could see that turbine engine causing them problems when and if it breaks down, Leopards would be a much better fit in my book. On the plus side I see from the package the US announced this morning that it does include Stryker and I also note there is a variant that has a 105m gun, I wonder if they might be included in the package?

Barry Larking
Barry Larking
1 year ago
Reply to  Cymbeline

You and Spy (plus a few more) have got this correctly as far as I am concerned.

This war. Stuff the Germans; who is it that really defends Germany today? Send in the Leopards.

Paul T
Paul T
1 year ago
Reply to  Steve

Politics comes into the equation – sending ex-Soviet hand me downs is somehow acceptable but sending modern western Tanks from current stocks is seen as an escalation.

Steve
Steve
1 year ago
Reply to  Paul T

I don’t get that. I can’t understand why it’s an escalation over providing HIMARS and artillery which fundamentally changed the equation in the favour of Ukraine. Not saying it’s not the reason, but it doesn’t make sense.

Paul T
Paul T
1 year ago
Reply to  Steve

It doesn’t make sense i agree – from what i understand Herr Scholz is being vary cautious and looking to the USA and saying ‘you first’.

Steve
Steve
1 year ago
Reply to  Paul T

I am wondering if all countries are at the same game. Germany keeps saying it hasn’t blocked and transfers, so if true then Poland is just blaming Germany to avoid doing anything. Are all countries playing a giant game of chicken.

Maybe a coincidence but almost immediately after Boris said he was flying to Ukraine, Sunak announced Chally tanks being issued, could vanity utimiately unlock this with the UK blinking first.

Graham Moore
Graham Moore
1 year ago
Reply to  Steve

I think it is because tanks (with accompanying infantry) can take and hold ground (ground that the Russians had control over, but then don’t).

Barry Larking
Barry Larking
1 year ago
Reply to  Steve

I own, armchair, view is that the Abrams needing speacial attrntion and jet fuel might be a bigger stumbling block.

Germany need not send many more Leopards than the British are planning to send Challenger 2’s. The real Leopard numbers would come from other countries once Germany agrees. If it agrees ..

DaveyB
DaveyB
1 year ago
Reply to  Barry Larking

The Abrams gas turbine engine can run on Jet or standard diesel. It doesn’t really matter. Jet fuel is slightly safer, as it has a higher flash point than diesel.

The other question is what would Germany actually do, if Poland, Finland etc gave Ukraine some Leopard 2s?

Graham Moore
Graham Moore
1 year ago
Reply to  Steve

US tanks are no good to Ukraine. Very thirsty and need huge amount of maintenance.

Steve
Steve
1 year ago
Reply to  Graham Moore

That’s the case with everything donated to a lessor or greater degree. There were stories not long ago that all the donated gear was out of service getting repairs outside Ukraine, who knows if true. Whether true or not I’m sure they made a difference whilst they worked.

stewart hitchen
stewart hitchen
1 year ago
Reply to  Steve

The problem with the American Abrams is it is high maintenance requirements and its fuel consumption of its gas turbine power plant. The leopard is a better procurement for Ukraine

Barry Larking
Barry Larking
1 year ago
Reply to  Cymbeline

The E.U. supposedly has no ‘leadership’ but Germany is the only country that counts. Hence the E.U. is nick named the Fourth Reich. The talk about raising an E.U. (German) Army was accelerated by Europe’s contempt for the United States democratic election of Donald Trump – the same United States that re-financed the entire Continent after the fascist era – and was pure politics. I agree about Poland excepting I wouldn’t ask Germany for the baton. Finland joining N.A.T.O. is also a win.

I have German connections and like the country in many ways but politics – well …

dan
dan
1 year ago
Reply to  Puffing Billy

Thanks to that old fool Merkel. She reminds me alot of our old fool Biden. lol

John Stevens
John Stevens
1 year ago
Reply to  dan

Ouch! I have a little bit more respect for Biden than you have. Let’s not forget the support packages that the USA have already given to the Ukraine.. * Huge amount and more to come* I prefer Biden to be in power now.. Trump could of been a disaster in this crisis/situation.

Jonny
Jonny
1 year ago
Reply to  John Stevens

fyi dan is a die-hard trump supporter on here

John Stevens
John Stevens
1 year ago
Reply to  Jonny

I feel sorry for him

R R A
R R A
1 year ago
Reply to  John Stevens

Nope! Biden said a little incursion is OK. It was Biden who pulled our marines out, clearing the path for Russia. It was Biden who hesitated and said Ukraine should negotiate and not fight. It was the Americans that delayed stinger missiles. Biden is the kind of guy who won’t make a decision until the gang gets together and chants ‘go joe go. He advised Obama not to strike Osama in case something goes wrong. The only nation that stood up right away while America quivered was Great Britain.

Ian
Ian
1 year ago
Reply to  R R A

It’s true. His blundering demolition of US strategic ambiguity on the matter of Ukraine is a matter of record.

John Stevens
John Stevens
1 year ago
Reply to  R R A

Nope! As I said before.. I’m greatly relieved that the current president of the United States is ‘Biden’. By the way.. Another 2.5 Billion dollar package announced by the US administration for the Ukraine today. When it comes to my own country (UK) Yes, the Brit’s are giving excellent support to the Ukraine. Whatever you say about Biden, I’m glad that he is in the White House not Trump.

rranapa
rranapa
1 year ago
Reply to  John Stevens

Me???
I didn’t and don’t like either one and voted 3rd party. I know I sound cynical, but to me, there is little difference. I was shocked, absolutely shocked when Trump won his first primary and became the nominee. Moving on, it will be interesting if the Germans can be turned around and ship those tanks. Once again, Great Britain is leading the way. Sincerely, Randy Anderson

John Stevens
John Stevens
1 year ago
Reply to  rranapa

Good to see Germany sending tanks soon. Hugely important move. Perhaps more will be sent further down the line. I think the Leopard and challenger MBT will be first. Abrahams later, but still all very welcome to hear.

John Stevens
John Stevens
1 year ago
Reply to  John Stevens

*Abrams

Netking
Netking
1 year ago
Reply to  R R A

Here is Trump calling Putin a genius for invading Ukraine. Did you all sleep through this or just choose to pretend Trump wasn’t kissing up to Putin his entire presidency?

https://www.politico.com/news/2022/02/23/trump-putin-ukraine-invasion-00010923

Spyinthesky
Spyinthesky
1 year ago
Reply to  John Stevens

May not be popular with some but the damage he has done in international relations and the horrendous internal rifts that were and likely again will be close to civil war and a total disregard for foreign affairs have created the whole environment for foreign dictators to preach NWO and see the opportunity to exploit the weakness it now portrays to the World while the rest of us become collateral.

Barry Larking
Barry Larking
1 year ago
Reply to  John Stevens

‘Could’. Wasn’t.

I am not an American so my opinion is not significant I suppose. Donald J.Trump is everything his detractors say about him but his record in office demonstrates why so many blue collar Yanks adore him. In many ways flawed human beings make good politicians whereas the more humane ones are the worst. Sadly that’s our world. But, I suggest, paradoxically, many more people around the world are better for the past actions of men and women we wouldn’t invite into our own homes.

John Stevens
John Stevens
1 year ago
Reply to  Barry Larking

My comments above are about Trump/Biden and the current crisis in Europe (Ukraine). That is why I prefer Biden. There are many more comments I could make about Trump/Biden and there politics, but that is not for today. My previous comments were all about the Ukraine crisis.

Have a good Friday/Weekend All !!!

Barry Larking
Barry Larking
1 year ago
Reply to  John Stevens

Thanks. I admit, I don’t have a dog in this fight. 👍

Netking
Netking
1 year ago
Reply to  dan

Due to all the butt polishing that Trump did to Putin, is anybody surprised that Putin was embolden to believe that he could get away with the invasion of Ukraine.

Spyinthesky
Spyinthesky
1 year ago
Reply to  Netking

Absolutely so, to the right wing Republicans all those commie bastards of yesteryear are now like brothers in arms extreme nationalists with a healthy contempt for we little people.

Spyinthesky
Spyinthesky
1 year ago
Reply to  dan

Yes her reputation is hardly holding up well.

Graham Moore
Graham Moore
1 year ago
Reply to  dan

True.
Her determination to phase out nuclear power made Germany reliant on Russia for gas.

Tams
Tams
1 year ago
Reply to  Puffing Billy

To be fair, they have eventually supplied a lot (after sending just a few bits if body armour and some rusty weapons). Why they insist on provaracating yet again… (well, we all know it’s their business interests)

Their demand that US send Abrams is hardly a hard one to meet though. How much those fuel guzzlers will help Ukraine directly is very questionable, but if it is what is required to get Germany to allow Leopards to be sent, then so be it.

Last edited 1 year ago by Tams
AlbertStarburst
AlbertStarburst
1 year ago
Reply to  Puffing Billy

Apart from all their other issues regarding arming Ukraine, I suspect that there is also an element of “East German” influence/mindset still with the Berlin Government.

Graham Moore
Graham Moore
1 year ago
Reply to  Puffing Billy

Why is Scholz so scared of Putin – they have weaned themselves off Russian gas now.

John Hartley
John Hartley
1 year ago
Reply to  Puffing Billy

Depending on which source you look at, Taiwan still has 300-450 M60A3 tanks. They want to replace them with M1, but the US has only agreed a small number. What if the US did a swap? Surplus M1A1 for M60A3. Taiwan would have a better deterrent against Chinese invasion. The US would have simpler M60 tanks to donate to Ukraine.

farouk
farouk
1 year ago

I wonder if this batch of Brimstone has been supplied in which to tackle any possible Russian thrust into the Ukraine in the near future.

Monkey spanker
Monkey spanker
1 year ago
Reply to  farouk

It could well be. Supposedly the route from the north is quite limited in where attacks could come from. Kill zones have hopefully all been worked out.
Best thing Ukraine could do is get Russia out of the south to cut down the size of the front. Russia being east is going to be a threat even if they are pushed right back to the border.
Belarus leader would be nuts to invade as I don’t think the population will stand for it. Dictators normally are a bit nuts 🌰

Spyinthesky
Spyinthesky
1 year ago
Reply to  Monkey spanker

Spot on that south is the key if it can thrust through to the sea off Asov only about 70 miles it would completely threaten Russias plans and alter the dynamic and Crimea would be seriously isolated and under potential fire as would the bridge. Have they the strength though those tanks are probably a vital ingredient to achieve it.

Monkey spanker
Monkey spanker
1 year ago
Reply to  Spyinthesky

Trying to hold the lines with 20k soldiers in bakmut and then battalions scattered without putting pressure on Russian forces elsewhere is proving difficult.
I hope Ukraine are getting a plan in place as they are losing small amounts of territory. Russia is losing a lot of forces to get those areas but Ukraine’s casualties are not a small number either.
It’s a meat grinder and human is top of the menu.

p_thomas
p_thomas
1 year ago
Reply to  Monkey spanker

I visited Ukraine twice this year.. I know it’s not great to publish exactly what’s what but Ukraine’s losses are a hell of a lot. Local news is still upbeat though, especially about USA, Poland, UK. They are just trying to pull in as much kit as possible before march/beginning of spring.

All people i spoke to said they need tanks, civilians and others

farouk
farouk
1 year ago

Just bought Febs issue of Airforce monthly. They have an article on how the Spanish Airforce has selected Brimstone for their Eurofighter, with an op date for the end of the year.

Monkey spanker
Monkey spanker
1 year ago
Reply to  farouk

That’s good news. More operators of brimstone could help keep manufacturing running and newer, better, cheaper versions coming.
I do like the newer Small diameter bomb version, the 4 bomb racks on a hard point. I guess we will see how it does in Ukraine. Hopefully really well.

Nigel Collins
Nigel Collins
1 year ago
Reply to  Monkey spanker

Hi Monkey Spanker, Here’s an interesting thought, If Germany holds nuclear weapons how can they be trusted to deploy them if required to do so when they cannot even agree to send a shipment of tanks to Ukraine?

Good news on the Brimstone front, if only Ukraine could get close enough to use them on Russian Ships.

Last edited 1 year ago by Nigel Collins
Nigel Collins
Nigel Collins
1 year ago
Reply to  Nigel Collins

MARITIME BRIMSTONE

Maritime Brimstone has been designed to be modular and can be integrated to a wide variety of vessel types/classes.

The same missile can be used from fixed wing and naval platforms, minimising logistic support infrastructure

Maritime Brimstone is a modular, flexible system adaptable to a wide variety of existing ship system configurations

The system is user friendly with mode selections via a touchscreen control panel

The system is fire and forget and in salvo operation can rapidly cope with both swarms of targets and individual target(s) situations

Quentin D63
Quentin D63
1 year ago
Reply to  Nigel Collins

These can be FFBNW on the Rivers for a bit more oomph if when needed.

Nigel Collins
Nigel Collins
1 year ago
Reply to  Quentin D63

👍Nothing quite like a bit of added oomph!

Monkey spanker
Monkey spanker
1 year ago
Reply to  Nigel Collins

Honestly I don’t know the complete process for the special weapons. I know the USA holds them and will release them onto the aircraft. The tornado retirement would of given Germany the perfect excuse to get out of the nuclear sharing deal if they wished. They seem to want to stay in it. Final thought is I don’t actually think in a hot war that the few weapons Germany has access to would be necessary or change the outcome used or unused. They are a hangover of the Cold War where the role would of been to drop them on… Read more »

Nigel Collins
Nigel Collins
1 year ago
Reply to  Monkey spanker

“Hopefully I’m near a target for instant vaporisation” and sleeping!

Monkey spanker
Monkey spanker
1 year ago
Reply to  Nigel Collins

Oh no not sleeping. I want to make a great shape next to a wall to leave a shadow imprint. Perhaps jazz hands, bruce Forsyth generation game pose 😂😂😂😂😂

DaveyB
DaveyB
1 year ago
Reply to  Nigel Collins

Germany’s nukes are actually US nukes on loan. The US holds and stores them on German soil, they can also veto their use. Germany has to ask the US for the nukes.

Last edited 1 year ago by DaveyB
Nigel Collins
Nigel Collins
1 year ago
Reply to  DaveyB

Perhaps it’s time to transfer them to other NATO members if they fail to agree on the supply of Leopards to Ukraine.

13 Oct 2022

“The US also has an estimated 100 nuclear warheads stored across Europe on air bases in Belgium, Germany, Italy, the Netherlands, and Turkey, according to the Centre for Arms Control and Non-Proliferation.

Monkey spanker
Monkey spanker
1 year ago

Great news on giving the vehicles to operate challenger 2.
The spares for Ukraine’s vehicles will be useful.
It’s a quite a bundle of stuff there. Same again next month probably needed.
I was thinking if the old grid square removal tactic for the MLRS would be useful where the Russians are concentrating. They know where they massing around towns. Just know the Ukrainians are losing a few towns to large concentrations of Russian troops.
Lots of allies seem to be giving equipment as well so hopefully it’s can help. Sweden with archer, USA with SDB on the MLRS rocket.

DaveyB
DaveyB
1 year ago
Reply to  Monkey spanker

Unfortunately we signed up to the banning of cluster munitions, which effectively got rid of the grid square removal rockets. Instead we now have the long range sniper rocket.

One option being looked at by the UK, is Spear-3 loaded in to a MRLS magazine.

John Williams
John Williams
1 year ago

is the UK MOD replacing all the equipment that is being sent to the Ukraine?

If not, why not

Daniele Mandelli
Daniele Mandelli
1 year ago
Reply to  John Williams

Complex answer.

FormerUSAF
FormerUSAF
1 year ago

🤣😂😁, you have just passed the entrance exam to train as a US gov’t spokesperson! Online classes should be starting spring semester soon. 😁

Daniele Mandelli
Daniele Mandelli
1 year ago
Reply to  FormerUSAF

👍 😎

John Hartley
John Hartley
1 year ago

I would still put out the begging bowl for ex USMC M777, as an interim replacement for the AS90 the UK has sent to Ukraine. The UK ought to buy cheaply a few hundred ground launched small diameter bombs to give our M270 MLRS a 93 mile precision strike capability.

Monkey spanker
Monkey spanker
1 year ago
Reply to  John Williams

Very complex answer. Do u replace an out of service CVRT with another out of service one.
For missile stocks some are.
The uk forces have plenty left for the roles they plan for.

Daniele Mandelli
Daniele Mandelli
1 year ago
Reply to  Monkey spanker

Yep, that reply started to cover it MS, I could not be bothered I’ve detailed it too many times.

Sean
Sean
1 year ago

Only problem with supplying Brimstones is that they destroy tanks. Which initially actually sounds good until you realise the Russian Army is currently the largest donor of tanks to the Ukranian Army 😏

Puffing Billy
Puffing Billy
1 year ago
Reply to  Sean

Wield post. Sitting here drinking a bottle of wine!

FormerUSAF
FormerUSAF
1 year ago
Reply to  Sean

UKR will simply have to become more discriminating in its choice of which Russian inventory to accept! 😉

By the end of this minor dust-up, UKR may have the largest, most seasoned and well equipped army w/in Eurasian theatre. 😳

JohninMK
JohninMK
1 year ago
Reply to  FormerUSAF

I suspect that the Ukrainians would accept any Russian gear, if only because they are likely familiar with it and have spares. I love your use of understatement, this is the largest war in Europe since WW2 and it has a while left to run. The biggest problem the UA has is probably the insistence of its political masters that it should hold the line, the concept of tactical retreat seeming to be unacceptable. With Russian artillery pounding away at UA positions creating the need for almost constant movement of replacement troops. The infamous ‘meat-grinder’. Whether there will be much… Read more »

Spyinthesky
Spyinthesky
1 year ago
Reply to  JohninMK

Explained that so clearly you don’t listen, however the Ukrainians have in the past shown a penchant for tactical withdrawal so clearly have no strategic dislike of it, indeed it was the Russians who for months refused to do so and thus lost large numbers of its troops and equipment certainly until they changed that particular tactic. As for how many tanks passed over to Ukraine by Russian forces nobody knows exactly neither me nor you especially from the sources you frequent. The seasoned army seems to be holding up pretty well so far however if the mighty Russian Army… Read more »

Sean
Sean
1 year ago
Reply to  JohninMK

You really are clueless aren’t you?!?! 😆 You claim that Ukraine finds “tactical retreat as unacceptable” in the very week that they performed a tactical withdrawal from Soledar. Russian artillery aren’t “pounding away at UA positions”. The Russian artillery is so poor they have to conduct area bombardment to try and hit anything meaningful. Which is why they’ve been firing over ten times the shells that Ukraine has. It’s no surprise the Russians are running out of munitions and been forced to drastically cut shell expenditure recently. Yes it’s sad to see so many young men being out through the… Read more »

Last edited 1 year ago by Sean
Mr Bell
Mr Bell
1 year ago
Reply to  JohninMK

All war is a neat grinder. You engage the enemy to try to kill them. That’s war. It’s messy, tragic and horrifying. Still you wouldn’t know about that sitting in the basement of the Kremlin

Cymbeline
Cymbeline
1 year ago
Reply to  Mr Bell

More likely Grizodubovoy Street 3

JohninMK
JohninMK
1 year ago
Reply to  Sean

Apart from the first 2/3 months I have seen little evidence of the Ukrainians capturing more than a few handfuls of Russian tanks. Since then it has been the hundreds of T-72 from eastern Europe that have been the source of most extra tanks to the UA.

Have I missed something re your ‘current donor’ comment?

Last edited 1 year ago by JohninMK
Posse Comitatus
Posse Comitatus
1 year ago
Reply to  JohninMK

” …..I have seen little evidence of the Ukrainians capturing more than a few handfuls of Russian tanks. ” Yeah, you’ve missed a lot. Firstly you’re not on the front in Ukraine, so you are in no position to judge , given your previous spinelessness, I would expect you to be the pants – shitter in chief if you went within an asses roar of a war zone. Secondly, all of your, ahem, “information ” is provided by the Kremlin or its various sock puppets, and they are liars, pure and simple. Thirdly, you are a propagandist for the Russian,… Read more »

JohninMK
JohninMK
1 year ago

I agree with your third para, which is exactly what I said. So where is the evidence of what Sean wrote “Russian Army is currently the largest donor of tanks to the Ukranian Army”? My highlight.

Posse Comitatus
Posse Comitatus
1 year ago
Reply to  JohninMK

Leaving aside your sophistry and hair splitting about what defines current, it is probably impossible to penetrate that locked bunker you reside in , even your lauded Russian milbloggers have acknowledged the capture by Ukraine of Russian armour.
Incidentally, your gleeful reporting of Ukrainian officials claiming the Dnipro apartment missile strike was somehow caused by Ukrainian AD turns out to be wide of the mark. The official resigned, admitted he was wrong and apologised to the relatives of the murdered residents. Perhaps you should consider doing the same, or at least apologise here for posting incorrect Russian propaganda.

Spyinthesky
Spyinthesky
1 year ago

Some chance

Netking
Netking
1 year ago
Reply to  JohninMK

Come on now. You can always go to the oryx website and see numbers with photographic evidence of the enormous equipment loss Russia has suffered so far.

https://www.oryxspioenkop.com/2022/02/attack-on-europe-documenting-equipment.html

By the way, nothing says your 3 day war is going great better than almost a year later you’re placing a SAM system on top of the Ministry of Defence building in Moscow.

Mr Bell
Mr Bell
1 year ago
Reply to  JohninMK

See my answer above please. All verified and confirmed.

Airborne
Airborne
1 year ago

Pretty accurate assessment of the current situation with saddo Nazi johnskie 👍

Airborne
Airborne
1 year ago
Reply to  JohninMK

You miss pretty much everything, starting from honesty, moving through to a lack of impartiality, closely followed by an absolute lack of morals, tactical knowledge and a gap in your reality, ending in a whole load of vomit inducing Nazi supporting posts, which confirm your disgusting lack of condemnation for this illegal war and therefore showing your tacit approval of the Russian Nazi tactics of rape, torture and murder! Glad you agree!

Sean
Sean
1 year ago
Reply to  Airborne

Damn, thats an total dissection of his character as a human being…!
But totally accurate and deserved.

Well done Airborne 👏🏻

Jonny
Jonny
1 year ago
Reply to  JohninMK

I bet you love slaughtering innocent civilians, don’t you?

Sean
Sean
1 year ago
Reply to  Jonny

Oh he’s too much of a coward to do that himself, he’s just a cheerleader for those that commit these bike crimes.

Monkey spanker
Monkey spanker
1 year ago
Reply to  JohninMK

As in any war sorry special operation there are spoils of war equipment. I watched a video dated the 12 January of a Russian T72 and 2 BMPs been dragged out the bushes from the north Kharkiv region. Oryx is a great resource for keeping proven records of things destroyed, captured etc. The recent order that the Russians in Ukraine are to be clean shaven is either so there gas masks fit properly or some general doesn’t like beards. Really hope it’s the latter. Knowing Russian equipment the gas masks and NBC kit probably doesn’t work properly anyway. Been in… Read more »

Sean
Sean
1 year ago
Reply to  JohninMK

You’ve seen little evidence because you obviously only watch RT and other Putin propaganda channels. Ukraine has received dozens of tanks from other former Eastern Bloc nations, but they don’t match the numbers abandoned by Russian crews or captured. Ukraine has more tanks now than it had when the war began, and more than the number committed by Russia to the invasion. It’s one of the reasons why the Russians have reverted from tank warfare to an artillery war. That and they don’t know how to conduct tank ware far as part of combined arms, which leaves they prey to… Read more »

Farouk
Farouk
1 year ago
Reply to  JohninMK

JIMK wrote: “Apart from the first 2/3 months I have seen little evidence of the Ukrainians capturing more than a few handfuls of Russian tanks.” 2 to 3 months would refer to March and April when Moscow was forced to retreat from all the land between Kyiv and Sumy and up to the Russian border which means they left behind a load of equipment . In September Moscow was pushed out of virtually the entire Kharkiv Oblast. In November Moscow was pushed out of the eastern half of the Kherson Oblast. in both cases it is well documented on the… Read more »

JohninMK
JohninMK
1 year ago
Reply to  Farouk

I agree with you up to Kharkiv but I’m pretty sure the UA didn’t capture much then.. As to Kherson there is no evidence that the Russians left more than a handful of armour behind. They say that they evacuated around 45,000 civilians, 25,000 troops and 5,000 pieces of equipment. Ammo etc I’ll agree with you. Love to see the documentation showing otherwise, should be lots of photos as the UA loves publishing stuff on dead Russian gear. Regardless of that you are avoiding the point. I again state that there is NO evidence that the Russians are CURRENTLY the… Read more »

Marked
Marked
1 year ago
Reply to  JohninMK

Your masters filter what you see knowing you haven’t got the intellect to question them.

Those of us allowed access to the real world see countless clips of captured vehicles being driven/ towed away.

You keep on following the script though like a good little orc.

Mr Bell
Mr Bell
1 year ago
Reply to  JohninMK

What world are you in? The recent Ukranian advances scattered an entire Russian army group and captured the equivalent to approx 2 brigade sized groups of abandoned heavy equipment.
So yes Russia IS the biggest donator of heavy equipment.

JohninMK
JohninMK
1 year ago
Reply to  Mr Bell

What advance and when? Links please?

David
David
1 year ago

Some pictures on Twitter show Russian far Eastern factories refurbing large quantities of T62 tanks so Putin is clearly going for the good old soviet tactic of huge numbers vs no fecks given to casualties. Unless the west has secretly ramped up production then advanced ATGM stocks could run out, along with 155mm so this war is going to drag on. These 600 should help, it would be preferable if they manage to intergrate them on something like SU-25 to exploit the range. Hopefully enough newly pledged kit gets there in time. On another point. Why would anyone now buy… Read more »

Esteban
Esteban
1 year ago
Reply to  David

The US is spending hundreds of millions modernising ammunition plants and has vastly increased munition aquisition. Has anyone else? The war will soon be a year old. What is everyone waiting for?

Ben
Ben
1 year ago
Reply to  Esteban

Both the UK and the Czechs are ramping up production. If the Czechs numbers are true, then they have the largest 155mm production capacity in Europe at present. Perun on YouTube did a fantastic video a few weeks ago on the efforts in Western and Western-aligned countries to ramp up production and their stockpiles of critical ammunition.

Joe16
Joe16
1 year ago
Reply to  Ben

That’s good news! Haven’t heard that, but I do think that we should be looking hard at our capabilities to produce ammunition in quantity- glad the MOD are thinking on the same lines. 

Airborne
Airborne
1 year ago
Reply to  Esteban

You to grow up and get a US green card, like you always wished for! Fanboy!

Monkey spanker
Monkey spanker
1 year ago
Reply to  Esteban

There have been a lot of upscaling of ammunition plants across nato. Europe as a whole can out produce the USA in artillery.
What we find is the USA puts out a press release/notice to Congress/etc of everything they are doing. Other countries don’t so it can appear nothing is happening.
The latest round of talks for donations to Ukraine is quite substantial.

David Lloyd
David Lloyd
1 year ago
Reply to  David

How quickly could a K9 factory be be in production over here? I wouldnt want to hand over all our AS90 until it was producing in-spec K9

Nigel Collins
Nigel Collins
1 year ago
Reply to  David Lloyd

17.01.2023 UK Team Thunder moves forward with plans for British variant of K9 Self-Propelled Gun “Business leaders and engineers from five defence companies in the U.K. visited the manufacturing facility of the world’s most proven K9 Self-Propelled Howitzer (SPH) in South Korea to progress plans to compete for the U.K. Mobile Fires Platform (MFP) programme. The companies include Lockheed Martin U.K.; Leonardo U.K.; Pearson Engineering; Horstman Defence; and Soucy Defense. Hanwha is leading the team to bid for the MFP programme aimed at procuring up to 116 self-propelled guns for the British Army. There are over 1,700 units already in… Read more »

Last edited 1 year ago by Nigel Collins
David Lloyd
David Lloyd
1 year ago
Reply to  Nigel Collins

In view of the gravity of the situation in Ukr I would prefer to buy as many of these off-the-shelf as we could. I would leave the building of the factory and the necessary tooling to the private sector companies in the consortium

That was an interesting clip, 50% of the manufacture – and the build in the UK – looks good. We must keep the MoD out of it at all costs.

Nigel Collins
Nigel Collins
1 year ago
Reply to  David Lloyd

After hearing about Germany’s reluctance to give permission to Poland and other countries who wish to supply Ukraine with Leopard tanks, I’m beginning to wonder what our contractual agreement is with Boxer? Maybe the Hanwa Redback would have been a better choice for us. “This new IFV has a 2-man turret. It is armed with a 30 mm Mk44S Bushmaster II automatic cannon. It fires 30×173 mm ammunition, which is used by 19 nations, including the United States, United Kingdom and other members of NATO. Various types of ammunition were developed for this gun. The Redback can also use advanced… Read more »

Nigel Collins
Nigel Collins
1 year ago
Reply to  Nigel Collins

We may have backed the wrong horse!

Korea, Poland to make K2PL tanks based on 120mm K2 Black Panther
Rumours of a K2PL tank
At present, there is no specific information on what the tank will look like and what different features and elements will be integrated into it to meet Polish needs.

Nigel Collins
Nigel Collins
1 year ago
Reply to  Nigel Collins

Also interesting,

October 19, 2022,

SEOUL — Kongsberg Defence & Aerospace (KDA), a Norwegian supplier of defence and space-related systems and products, has established a strategic partnership with Hyundai Rotem, the producer of South Korea’s main battle tank, K2 Black Panther, to develop unmanned turrets and drone protection systems to be installed in next-generation tanks and wheel-type armoured vehicles.”

Last edited 1 year ago by Nigel Collins
Paul T
Paul T
1 year ago
Reply to  Nigel Collins

Im pretty sure Poland knows what the K2PL looks like – they had the first 10 delivered late last year https://www.armyrecognition.com/defense_news_december_2022_global_security_army_industry/poland_receives_first_batch_of_10_k2_pl_tanks_from_south_korea.html

Nigel Collins
Nigel Collins
1 year ago
Reply to  Paul T

Good spot!

I wonder if this will be a sticking point as the Leopard has become? hopefully not.

“The main armament of the K2PL consists of a German-made Rheinmetall 120-mm/ L55 smoothbore gun produced under license in South Korea. The gun is fitted with an automatic loader with 16 rounds ready to fire and 24 rounds are stored inside the hull.”

Mr Bell
Mr Bell
1 year ago
Reply to  Nigel Collins

Hanwa Redneck has been selected by Australia hasn’t it?
Agree it looks good as a potential warrior replacement although closer to home the latest variants of CV90 seem to be highly capable platforms too

Nigel Collins
Nigel Collins
1 year ago
Reply to  Mr Bell

Choices, Choices! My only thoughts were if we were intending to go the Hanwa route, why not build a solid UK infrastructure and create as many jobs as possible?

Poland seems to be going down this route with some decent workshare.

One for the experts on here.

Quentin D63
Quentin D63
1 year ago
Reply to  Nigel Collins

Hi again Nigel, I read that it’s only got a 520km range and 65 kmh top speed. Does it need a bit more legs and zip?

Nigel Collins
Nigel Collins
1 year ago
Reply to  Quentin D63

One for the experts on here,I know I do 😂

Last edited 1 year ago by Nigel Collins
Quentin D63
Quentin D63
1 year ago
Reply to  Nigel Collins

Lol…. Don’t we all! Better “wheels” too! Nothing against “tracked” thoughight be better if you get really heavy. 😁 😂 🇦🇺 🇬🇧

Quentin D63
Quentin D63
1 year ago
Reply to  Quentin D63

*though might..

Nigel Collins
Nigel Collins
1 year ago
Reply to  Quentin D63

😂👍

Joe16
Joe16
1 year ago
Reply to  Nigel Collins

I guess it depends on the contract, but export blocks have been a perennial issue with partnerships with Germany (Typhoon being an excellent example). We’ve previously had provisions in there that have allowed us to export because we’re manufacturing them in the UK, as partners in the programme rather than customers (key difference with Poland, here). I would expect/hope that, having rejoined the Boxer team as partners, that we have a similar carve out.

Nigel Collins
Nigel Collins
1 year ago
Reply to  Joe16

I hope so too!

grinch
grinch
1 year ago
Reply to  Joe16

The UK does. Free to export Boxers made in the UK to anyone.

Joe16
Joe16
1 year ago
Reply to  Nigel Collins

As far as the Redback goes, I’d only really consider it if it wins the Australian competition- that would be a decent stamp of approval in my opinion. I wouldn’t be against using it as a replacement for Warrior, but I’d like to know why we can’t make an IFV out of Ajax when we’ve spent so much time, effort, and money getting it to work (which apparently it does now?). I’d also want to put the CTAS40 in the turret rather than the 30 mm Bushmaster, but I’ve no doubt the South Koreans would be very accommodating about that.… Read more »

Nigel Collins
Nigel Collins
1 year ago
Reply to  Joe16

I found these two articles.

LINK

“Hanwha Defense Australia (HDA) and Elbit Systems of Israel have agreed to support the Redback turret, built in Australia, for the global market.”

LINK

Last edited 1 year ago by Nigel Collins
Mr Bell
Mr Bell
1 year ago
Reply to  David Lloyd

It’s not the MOD it’s the army top brass. They will want a flying variant of the K9 with a electric fuel cell propulsion. The ability to time travel. The ability to fire quantum torpedo’s from its barrel and to be able to communicate targeting data via thought sensitive helmet sensors. End result £5 billion spent and didly squat to show for it
Agree by off the shelf proven designs and get in with the job in hand.

Quentin D63
Quentin D63
1 year ago
Reply to  Mr Bell

Mr Bell, I think we now will need those “quantum torpedos” to stop those new 🇷🇺 nuclear Poseidon torpedos just coming into service there! Jeez, NATO seriously need to keep an eagle eye on all Russian subs! 1-2 more Astutes please!! If Putin ever uses one of those it’ll be “good night Irene” for him and all his sods. Need the NSM kind of sooner and the FC/ASW to hurry up too! Too much faffing around with that! Maybe time for MK41s and TLAM on T45/26/31s. Japan recently ordered 600! Different threat area but at least they’re responding to it.… Read more »

Daniele Mandelli
Daniele Mandelli
1 year ago
Reply to  David Lloyd

Agreed, with such a UK build component it is very attractive.

Joe16
Joe16
1 year ago
Reply to  Nigel Collins

I’d be happy with getting the K9, seems like a good platform. But is there any problem with the underlying AS90 chassis? They may be knackered, but I’m not aware of them having been worked hard. If we could just replace the turret and get a 52 calibre gun with updated fire control systems, maybe uprate the engine if needed (get the uprated powerpack for both AS90 and CR3 at the same time), then I’d be happy with that- especially given tight finances. That’s assuming we keep any tracked SPG at all- wheels are popular these days (I know the… Read more »

Nigel Collins
Nigel Collins
1 year ago
Reply to  Joe16

Hopefully, some decisions will be made sooner rather than later, the Army needs the best kit that’s available on the market.

grinch
grinch
1 year ago
Reply to  Nigel Collins

Like the RAF getting F-35’s.

Nigel Collins
Nigel Collins
1 year ago
Reply to  grinch

Royal Air Force takes delivery of new batch of F35-B fighter jets
Currently Grounded for the foreseeable future. Less than 40 hours of flight time Ron 5, do keep up one crashed just before Christmas remember?

ABCRodney
ABCRodney
1 year ago
Reply to  Joe16

Strangely Poland assessed the AS90M Braveheart, Pzh2000 and K9 turrets and picked the AS90M as the best of the bunch.
Mounted on a version of the K9 chassis they are building them as the Krab.
Seems like a logical upgrade path for U.K. !

Joe16
Joe16
1 year ago
Reply to  ABCRodney

Ah, I didn’t realise they used the K9 underneath. Can our turrets get updated to Braveheart pattern then, or would they need to be new? We could do the opposite- original AS90 chassis with new AS90M turret!

FormerUSAF
FormerUSAF
1 year ago
Reply to  David

Trust me, Ukrainians, Poles and Eastern Europeans in general have been taking copious notes throughout. They are acutely aware of the parties who stepped into the breach during their hour of need. The intriguing question is whether UK Defence Technologies, PLC (writ large) has the capability to rearm MoD and a significant portion of NATO simultaneously? 🤔😳

Monkey spanker
Monkey spanker
1 year ago
Reply to  FormerUSAF

Show me the money and everything is possible.
Artillery shells and small arms will be ok.
As with all things some items will be harder to get but that is when something else will fill the gap.
Russia was NATO’s main enemy and if they are exhausted then it’s job done.
Learning from Ukraine conflict will probably be making items easier to produce at scale and cost is needed. For difficult items enough need to be stored.

FormerUSAF
FormerUSAF
1 year ago
Reply to  Monkey spanker

Believe the US could sponsor an inventory reduction sale on JDAMs. The ad copy could virtually write itself.

Mr Bell
Mr Bell
1 year ago
Reply to  FormerUSAF

We should be able too. Just need to ramp up production
NLAW, 155MM Shells, Brimstone, small arms ammo all within our gift to manufacture and supply

Mr Bell
Mr Bell
1 year ago
Reply to  David

I wouldn’t worry about supply of ATGW. Russia won’t be able to field enough tanks to overcome the tens of thousands of ATGW NATO can supply. It’s far easier to supply and deploy an NLAW/ Javelin, Carl Gustav, Milan ER then a fully refurbished ancient piece of junk like the T64.

JohninMK
JohninMK
1 year ago
Reply to  Mr Bell

T-64 is UA its the T-62 that the Russians are refurbing.

Monkey spanker
Monkey spanker
1 year ago
Reply to  JohninMK

I’d rather be in a T64 than a T62 personally.
Give it a few months and Ukraine will be having many more western tanks grouping with T72/T64s. Or they may keep them separate but what ever they do T62 will be blowing turrets all over the place.

Andrew D
Andrew D
1 year ago

Give the USSRs something to think about,better still put Putin on the Battlefield then he know how is Troops feel.

jason
jason
1 year ago

This just shows the need for us to invest in our own defence and stocks and it shows the complete stupidity and ineptitude of politicians running down our defence particularly our army over so many decades.

Andrew D
Andrew D
1 year ago
Reply to  jason

Well said 👍

Mr Bell
Mr Bell
1 year ago
Reply to  jason

Agree. But the army top brass hasn’t helped the situation with their ineptitude at delivering defence procurement programmes have they?

jason
jason
1 year ago

Can anybody tell me if Brimstone has actually been making a difference in ukraine and what the impact has been because I haven’t heard anything about how effective it has been since last year. Who has the inside scoop?

JohninMK
JohninMK
1 year ago
Reply to  jason

Those of us outside the classified arena do not know. Since last summer there has been very, very few videos of ATGM attacks using any weapon, let alone Brimstone. This is no doubt due to tightened OPSEC by the UA. What anti tank video there is seems to be mainly Russian and of drones and helicopter launch no their ATGM. Given the UA must have asked for them it is likely that they have been effective.

Airborne
Airborne
1 year ago
Reply to  JohninMK

Er no! Damn propaganda, disinformation and bile drip from your every pore. Most footage has been the heli tactics of lobbing unguided rockets as an area weapon, from both sides. Anyone can dig up some shite footage os an Orc heli (if it survives over the battlefield long enough) firing an ATGW, means and proves nothing as you always like to tell us my little troll farm employee.

farouk
farouk
1 year ago
Reply to  JohninMK

JIMK wrote: “”Those of us outside the classified arena do not know. Since last summer there has been very, very few videos of ATGM attacks using any weapon, let alone Brimstone. “” JIMK, To understand why, is to look at the type pf weapon Brimstone is: Infantry Squad based Anti-tank weapons: Javelin NLAW RPGs Panzerfaust (and the rest) Are all short range weapons which have a maximum effective range of a few klicks  , as they are squad based, there will be somebody around with some form of recording device filming the use of such weapons. Brimstone was designed during the… Read more »

JohninMK
JohninMK
1 year ago
Reply to  farouk

As I said, it is likely that Brimstone has been effective. Earlier in the war the UA was filming in really good quality from drones, which could cover the beyond visual reach from the launching squad.

Monkey spanker
Monkey spanker
1 year ago
Reply to  farouk

Russia goes from the north Ukraine goes south. Guess by the summer we will see what has worked.
Belarus leader will need a safe house from his population if he joins in with forces.

Pete
Pete
1 year ago
Reply to  jason

think the answer is if you have firm eyes on target you use lower cost artillery, drones or possibly move to MLRS m270/ HIMARS ETC. If you don’t have eyes on target but a reasonable idea of where the armour is you use Brimstone. Hence limited video / Evidence of use.

Performance and use will come out once dust settles. Sure they wouldn’t be sending if it wasn’t working.

Tams
Tams
1 year ago
Reply to  jason

The nature of Brimstone means that you aren’t likely to be able to capture footage of its use. Drones don’t last long if they loiter around. Plus, the nature of the war has changed. There are fewer traps and ambushes being set as the lines have set in in many places. These Brimstone will be very useful for any offensive though, and we all know Ukraine need to launch one this spring. And if Russia launch one too, then there will be opportunities to use them then. And as others have said, the UA seem to have tightened opsec over… Read more »

Quentin D63
Quentin D63
1 year ago

Why tell everybody including the 🇷🇺 how many we’re sending?!!! Keep it quiet for goodness sake! And replace UK stocks asap with the ER Brimstone 3…if you’re not doing that already!…lol. 😆

Mr Bell
Mr Bell
1 year ago
Reply to  Quentin D63

Fair point. How long will it take the UK to replace 600 Brimstone and 100,000 155mm shells?

Quentin D63
Quentin D63
1 year ago
Reply to  Mr Bell

Good evening Mr Bell, I have absolutely no idea. Lots of time, money and resources needed for sure! At least newer, faster, better will replace the older.

Puffing Billy
Puffing Billy
1 year ago

As the modern anti-tank weapons supplied by the West have been so effective in knocking out Russian tanks do the Ukraines really need tanks to knock out tanks? Maybe it’s part of a bigger picture of supplying heavier weapons to scare off the Russians.

Mr Bell
Mr Bell
1 year ago
Reply to  Puffing Billy

Brimstone, javelin, Milan ER, NLAW can help punch a hole through Russian defensive formations. Especially tanks and IFVs in hull down positions. But you need tanks, support by IFVs, mobile artillery etc to advance and take back Ukranian territory. Seems the big spring slugfest will probably decide the war. Both sides will commit everything to do so. If Ukraine can hold off the impending massed Russian attack and then counter they have a reasonable chance of winning the war.

Jacko
Jacko
1 year ago
Reply to  Mr Bell

I would think that with all the spy planes etc monitoring the situation a ‘surprise’ attack is not going to happen! Any build up of Orc armour is going to be hammered by HIMARs etc before it crosses the border.

Jacko
Jacko
1 year ago
Reply to  Jacko

Either way an attack will not catch the Ukr by surprise,if Belarus either joins in or allow the Orcs to stage from their country then I will be fairly sure any Orc concentrations will get hammered. I think the time for niceties toward Belarus has long passed. But then there is no guarantee that the Belarusian people will actually take part in Pootins war!

Jacko
Jacko
1 year ago
Reply to  Jacko

Yep agreed but if there are indications of the Orcs moving toward Ukraine all bets are off on hitting them!

DaveyB
DaveyB
1 year ago
Reply to  Mr Bell

If the Russians had any sense and mounted a spring offensive from Belarus. They should ignore Kyiv and drive for Lviv. This is because the majority of Western supplied aid comes through Poland straight to Lviv. Cut off Western aid, Ukraine will seriously struggle. Having to reroute supplies through the mountainous border region with Rumania.

Hope I’m wrong!

DaveyB
DaveyB
1 year ago
Reply to  DaveyB

Hi Wolf. Don’t get me wrong, I do not want to see Russia succeed in its invasion. So far the Russian Army has failed both tactically and strategically. It is over reliant on mercenary groups, who seem to be driving the initiative. However, Ukraine’s weakness is its supply of Western weapons and ammunition. Cut these off and they will struggle. Russia must surely recognize this. Yet they only send the odd missile or suicide drone against Lviv. Which is one of the main logistical hubs for weapons entering the country. The border between Belarus and Ukraine is full of forests,… Read more »

JohninMK
JohninMK
1 year ago
Reply to  DaveyB

It looks like the Russians did a probing attack from the south over the past 48 hours on the front towards Zaporizhzhia resulting in gains along the whole front. Seemingly due to the UA having moved as much of its forces into Donbas as it could. The next couple of days will show whether this is a ‘real’ strike north by the Russians of just probes and the UA’s ability to resist. Little sign of Russian ineptitude. Having captured Soledar the Wagner forces are continuing to press NW, whilst south of Bahkmut Wagner is advancing west. The supply roads into… Read more »

Graham Moore
Graham Moore
1 year ago
Reply to  Puffing Billy

Tanks don’t just knock out tanks. They deliver shock action. They work with amroured infantry to enabble a combined arms force to advance and seize and hold ground.

DaveyB
DaveyB
1 year ago
Reply to  Puffing Billy

That’s only one of the tanks envisioned roles. The other which may be more pertinent, is infantry support for any offensives. ATGMs are not really useful for offensives as the majority of them are too static, such as the ones requiring a tripod for support. They are useful if mounted to a decent armoured fighting vehicle. As it gives extended reach and a larger punch for the dismounts in the back.

The tank is better in this role, as it carries more ready rounds, has decent mobility and with its armour has more durability.

Colin
Colin
1 year ago
  1. Who is paying for all this support…Are we rebuilding the UK Stock thought that the Challenger armour was secret what if the tank is captured and the russians reverse engineer the armour ?We are very short of Tanks for are own use and  artillery
Mark Forsyth
Mark Forsyth
1 year ago

The “Ukraine” situation should be a massive wake up call for all countries to look more closely at the contract T’s and C’s when they buy from overseas. Many NATO militarise would love to had over equipment to Ukraine but are stymied by the fact they need export licences from the country who originally made them. In most cases this is Germany. If ever there was a reason to NOT buy Leopard MBTs etc in the future, the current situation is clearly it.

grinch
grinch
1 year ago
Reply to  Mark Forsyth

👍

Graham Moore
Graham Moore
1 year ago
Reply to  Mark Forsyth

…and a few reasons not to buy M1 Abrams too. Thirsty, maintenance intensive, ITAR issues.

Simon
Simon
1 year ago
Reply to  Graham Moore

ITAR cause massive issues

peter fernch
peter fernch
1 year ago

It would be nice to know what steps are being taken “NOW” to replenish the equipment being sent or are our armed forces being “robbed” to help Ukrain

farouk
farouk
1 year ago
Reply to  peter fernch

Peter wrote:
In answer to the question posed, Parliment knocked out a document on the 12th Dec :
Military assistance to Ukraine since the Russian invasion
and I quote:

“”The MOD has said that the replacement of military equipment donated to Ukraine will be funded from the Treasury reserve and will not come out of the MOD’s procurement budget.”

Graham Moore
Graham Moore
1 year ago
Reply to  peter fernch

The platforms is not a big issue but spares and munitions might be.

John Hartley
John Hartley
1 year ago

Britain should restart domestic manufacture of explosive & propellant.

Mr Bell
Mr Bell
1 year ago

Perun on YouTube has done an excellent piece on captured Ruskie equipment. In the Donbass offensive Ukraine captured 54.5% of all Russian armour in the field. Equal to 2 armoured brigades.

Monkey spanker
Monkey spanker
1 year ago
Reply to  Mr Bell

Perun is turning into a legend. He saw some news at the start of the conflict that he didn’t think was right so made a video about it explaining why it’s wrong. So glad he did.

Joe16
Joe16
1 year ago

Good to hear, not just that we’re maintaining support, but that 600 more Brimstone suggests that the previous ones sent did a good job. I’ve seen very little information anywhere as to how well they’ve done in Ukraine- anyone else? Also, anyone know what minefield breaching gear we have? I’ve heard of those launchers of strings of explosives that create a path through, but wasn’t aware we had any. I presume we haven’t dusted off a load of Sherman crab kits from Bovington… I’m guessing medium range air defence missiles are Aster for the SAMP/T that France and Italy are… Read more »

farouk
farouk
1 year ago
Reply to  Joe16

The launcher of strings of explosives is Python. Its a rocket lauched tube of HE which has a digging in tool at the end with a winch fitted. Once it has dug in it pulls itself taut and once it is as straight as possible it is detonated. As a young Sapper, we were taught on the bangalore torpedo for short range clearence, on that note we also spent a lot of time on our front prodding the ground in front of us, if a mine was found we would place a small grey canvas coloured wire cone and move… Read more »

Joe16
Joe16
1 year ago
Reply to  farouk

Nice, glad we have something comparable to what I read about the American system.
Always important to learn the most bassic and unpleasant way of doing a job first, I suppose! I’d agree with wanting to deactivate a mine from a distance if I had the choice- I’ve seen videos from Ukraine of them finding primed grenades underneath them and suchlike.

Barry Larking
Barry Larking
1 year ago

Look Ukraine is a proxy war and the west cannot be seen to lose. The west’s technology and manufacturing sectors should be working flat out.

Lazerbenabba
Lazerbenabba
1 year ago

As an aside after watching and listening to the US Defence chiefs and the following journalists questions today at Ramstein airbase, what stood out like a sore thumb that several nations within the EU were singled out as the main contributors to Ukraine with military equipment.
However probably other than the US, the largest contribution, including tanks and the Brimstones mentioned above, the UK did not even get a mention.
I believe that Bidens Irish heritage is causing a rather bad smell in the North Atlantic Alliance.

Graham Moore
Graham Moore
1 year ago
Reply to  Lazerbenabba

I too noticed the lack of acknowledgement of the UK’s massive contribution and was very shocked.
Was Biden in the room?

Lazerbenabba
Lazerbenabba
1 year ago
Reply to  Graham Moore

I assume that was rhetorical but NO. Biden is more concerned of never having to answer direct and awkward questions, being more concerned with just maintaining his compus mentus.

Mr Bell
Mr Bell
1 year ago

News from Ramstein airbase….oh actually no significant news all previously disclosed commitments stay the same but nothing from Germany about allowing export re licensing for transfer of Leopard 2s from Poland and Finland to Ukraine. US General is right. Time is ticking and getting ever closer to spring when Ukraine states they need 300 Western MBTs to resist the coming Ruskie massed wave attack of conscripts and hundreds of rust bucket T64/72s. If Ukranian troops are going to be trained and skilled in tank use they need training now not when thousands of Russian tanks are pressing forward in a… Read more »

Graham Moore
Graham Moore
1 year ago
Reply to  Mr Bell

….and lets not forget that training the maintainers takes a long time.

Last edited 1 year ago by Graham Moore
Posse Comitatus
Posse Comitatus
1 year ago
Reply to  Mr Bell

I think it’s really only a matter of time before Ukraine gets the leopards . Maybe there are operational security reasons why no public decision has been announced, but I think we can be fairly certain that somewhere in NATO territory, Ukrainian tank crews are being trained in the use of leopard tanks.

Graham Moore
Graham Moore
1 year ago
Reply to  Mr Bell

Very disappointing meeting – and I hear reps from 50 nations turned up. The Germans have really screwed up – and there is ltlle time for the UA to get ready for Russia’s spring offensive – or even to pre-empt it. Poland is ready and willing to supply Leo 2s, but sadly there is no ‘piece of paper’ in Herr Scholz’s hand. Is there, once again as in history, a secret agreement between the German Chancellor and the Russian leader, to adversely affect Poland (and more importantly Ukraine)? I hear only about 43% of the German people want Leo2s to… Read more »

Peter Doyle
Peter Doyle
1 year ago

Let’s hope the UK Prime Minister and Chancellor fully support the resupply of arms and material to the UK armed forces together with further investment in UK armed forces.

The Artist Formerly Known As Los Pollos Chicken
The Artist Formerly Known As Los Pollos Chicken
1 year ago

Wonderful wonderful news at only 175,00k per missile X 600 just another 105 million being spent by those shitehoose politicians on everybody else meanwhile it’s cut cut cut for our own armed forces all cheered on by the boys in here . 😁

none the less more great news

👍🏻🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿🇬🇧

GlynH
GlynH
1 year ago

They will be obsolete Mk1s. Easier to give away than scrap.

p_thomas
p_thomas
1 year ago

So Germany won’t send tanks or let others provide them…

But has said it will help rebuild Ukraine once war is over, once it’s been flattened by russian aggression they’ll be their to help. Absolute reason right their why some country’s can’t be trusted

Paul.P
Paul.P
1 year ago

So can someone remind me how these Brimstones are delivered…from the back of a truck?
Now that the Germans are not going to send Leopard 2, the Ukrainians will be considering carefully what options they have for a spring offensive: T62, T72, Marders, Bradleys, AMX-10RC and Brimstone trucks? The Russians will be well dug in. Can we send more CR2…up to 50?

GlynH
GlynH
1 year ago

One assumes we are sending over our old Mk1 Single/Upgrade Dual Mode units. Maybe some Mk2’s. I honestly didn’t think we had so many. If we are giving away 600, that means a fair stockpile somewhere.