The Cadet Forces give young people the opportunity to make new friends, try different things and gain self-confidence (Picture: MOD)

Tri-Service

Inspiring to achieve: £70m pledged to boost Cadet Forces and train drone pilots

A £70m scheme has been launched which aims to increase the number of Armed Forces cadets by 30% by 2030.

If the target is met, the 30 by 30 plan announced by the Government would represent a major expansion of Cadet Forces across the country.

Adding 30% to the current number of cadets would mean more than 40,000 extra young people joining across the UK.

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There's also a focus on STEM (science, technology, engineering and maths) skills that could see the Air Cadets become the first military youth organisation in Britain certified to train drone pilots.

The measures also include:

:: New joint Army and Air Cadet Centres. These would add to the five already opened and the 12 under construction since the current Government came into office.

:: Increasing the number of adult volunteers. The aim is to streamline the process for becoming a Cadet Force Adult Volunteer and a new fast-track opportunity for veterans to become volunteers.

:: A National Cadet Champion. A search has been launched for a new National Cadet Champion to boost awareness of cadet opportunities.

Cadet forces follow the same values and standards as regular and reserve forces, once being courage - both moral and physical — Cadet Forces adhere to the same values and standards as regular and reserve forces, one being courage – both moral and physical (Picture: MOD)

:: Boosting STEM skills. New opportunities to develop STEM skills and try new technologies through the cadets. These include Civil Aviation Authority approval for Air Cadets to deliver a CAA-endorsed qualification in drone piloting. This will offer Air Cadet and Cadet Force Adult Volunteers industry-recognised and transferable qualifications.

:: Improving regular and reservist support for cadets. Providing greater opportunities for military personnel – both regulars and reserves – to support the Cadet Forces.

While some cadets will go on to join the Armed Forces, many will pursue a civilian career, however all will have been armed with some important life skills by the time they leave (Picture: MOD)

Veterans Minister Al Carns said the initiative would help young people discover their potential regardless of where they live or what income their family earns.

"The cadet experience doesn't just build character – it transforms futures, helping young people build confidence, develop skills and meet new people," he added.