British-supplied Challenger 2 tanks said to be used in Russia by Ukraine

British-donated Challenger 2 main battle tanks have been used by the Ukrainian armed forces inside Russia's border, BFBS Forces News understands.

Following an announcement from the UK Government that British weapons could be used inside Russia's territories, President Volodymyr Zelensky confirmed that Ukrainian troops have made a surprise incursion into the Kursh region.

The British-donated main battle tanks are believed to have taken part in the operation.

• MOD signals that Ukrainian military is free to use British weapons inside Russia
• Ukraine says it controls 1,000 sq km of Russia's Kursk region – and this is how it happened
• Challenger 2: The heavy duty British tank being used by Ukraine

In terms of how British-supplied weapons can be used, an MOD spokesperson said: "There has been no change in UK government policy.

"Under Article 51 of the UN Charter, Ukraine has a clear right of self-defence against Russia's illegal attacks, that does not preclude operations inside Russia. 

"We make clear during the gifting process that equipment is to be used in line with international law."

The UK Government is believed to be discussing with its allies whether to allow Ukraine to use Storm Shadow missiles outside its borders.

The 82nd Air Assault Brigade, which has been operating UK tanks since 2023, was deployed in the ongoing incursion and is currently fighting inside Russia.

It is unknown how many tanks may have been involved in the incursion.

The UK donated 14 Challenger 2 tanks in January 2023 to the Ukrainian armed forces as part of their defence against Moscow's invasion.

The Kursk offensive is believed to be the largest of its kind by a foreign army on Russian soil since the Second World War.