Ukrainian tank crews complete training in the UK

Ukrainian crews have completed their training on the Challenger 2 tanks and have returned to Ukraine. 

In January, the UK announced that it would be donating 14 Challenger 2 tanks to Ukraine, along with accompanying ammunition and spares – as part of its aid package. 

Shortly after that announcement, the training of Ukrainian soldiers on how to command, drive and work together as a Challenger 2 tank crew began in the UK.

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UK military trainers spent several weeks training Ukrainian personnel how to operate and fight with the tanks.

Teaching them how to identify and engage targets effectively, as well as how to command, drive and work together.

The Ministry of Defence (MOD) has released a documentary, going behind the scenes of the training.

Defence Secretary Ben Wallace, who visited the Ukrainian troops during their training at Bovington Camp in Dorset last month, said: "It is truly inspiring to witness the determination of Ukrainian soldiers having completed their training on British Challenger 2 tanks on British soil.

"They return to their homeland better equipped, but to no less danger.

"We will continue to stand by them and do all we can to support Ukraine for as long as it takes."

A 'step change in capability'

The MOD described the Challenger 2 vehicles as a "step change in capability" for Ukraine's armed forces, saying the machines would offer them some of the most modern and sophisticated gunnery systems in the world.

The Ukrainian troops will return with the Western tanks in time for a reported spring counter-offensive by Kyiv that is said to be in the works.

A Ukrainian tank commander, who has just finished the training course, said: "I fight for my future, for future of my country and for future of my family.

"This tank for us is like a diamond, I think it is the best tank in the world."

With the US supplying Abrams tanks, and Germany and other European allies providing Leopard 2 tanks, any strike on Russian lines is expected to involve the Western tanks manned by Kyiv's forces.