British Army provides landmine disposal training to Ukrainian troops on Interflex

The British Army has been providing training to Ukrainian soldiers on how to dispose of explosive landmines.  

Since Russia's invasion, landmines have remained a constant threat to the Ukrainian people - both military personnel and civilians.

Soldiers on Operation Interflex are now being given EOD training - Explosive Ordnance Disposal being the detection, identification, rendering safe and disposal of explosive devices.

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EOD training equips trainees with the skills, knowledge and tools needed to safely address and neutralise explosive threats.

Earlier this month, outgoing US President Joe Biden announced more support for Ukraine with the provision of anti-personnel landmines.

Their use is banned by more than 150 countries - but notably not by the US and Russia.

It was a controversial move, with some humanitarian organisations criticising the decision – one reason being the devastating impact it can have on civilians.

But US Secretary of Defence Lloyd Austin said the decision to supply them to Ukraine was based on how Russia had changed its tactics on the battlefield - sending in troops first rather than mechanised forces.

Therefore, as the number of landmines increase, EOD training is more important than ever.

Unlike anti-tank mines, which are triggered by the weight of vehicles, APMs require much less pressure to detonate.

EOD training reduces the risk as it teaches people to be able to recognise and eliminate the threat.

The British Army has been supporting Ukrainian soldiers under Operation Interflex since in 2022, following Russia's invasion of Ukraine.

Training is delivered at undisclosed locations across the UK, taking the volunteers and teaching them the skills needed for the frontline.

Earlier this month, Defence Secretary John Healey announced that the number of Ukrainian recruits to have been trained under Operation Interflex had reached 50,000.

The programme had been due to come to an end this year, but it will now continue until at least the end of 2025.