Desert Rats and RAF Typhoons to rehearse Ukraine deployment in event of peace deal

Hundreds of British troops are set to test what a deployment to Ukraine could look like if peace is secured and the fighting with Russia ends.

Three hundred UK personnel are among the 2,800 troops taking part in Exercise Koalicja in Poland from 9-22 November. 

Soldiers from the British Army's 7th Light Mechanised Brigade – the Desert Rats – are to rehearse crucial logistical movements.

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While RAF Typhoons and a Voyager refuelling aircraft will fly sorties overhead, the jets will simulate how they would reassure commercial air travel once Ukraine's skies reopen.

BFBS Forces News understands that the units involved have known for some time.

A real, capable, readily deployable force

Commander of the Multinational Force-Ukraine Lieutenant General Tom Bateman said: "This exercise will show that the Multinational Force-Ukraine (MNF-U) is a real, capable, readily deployable force that represents a serious commitment from Coalition of the Willing nations to Ukraine's long-term stability and security."

He added: "The MNF-U will be more ready every day to support Ukraine when the fighting ends, ensuring the Armed Forces of Ukraine are in the strongest possible position to deter future aggression."

The UK and France will jointly lead the first major exercise run by the MNF-U.

It is the military arm of the Coalition of the Willing, a group of nations who have pledged to strengthen military, economic and diplomatic support to Ukraine.

The drill, which will also simulate moving troops and supplies such as food and fuel, was agreed at a Coalition of the Willing summit in July.

Nations working together 

Lieutenant General Bateman said: "The MNF-U is not a Nato force, and Koalicja is not Nato activity, nor is the MNF-U a peacekeeping or ceasefire monitoring mission.

"It is not designed for offensive operations.

"Its purpose is to provide reassurance and support the regeneration of Ukraine's armed forces, strengthening their ability to deter and, if necessary, defend against future Russian aggression."

Forces from 11 nations will work together to test how to move, protect and supply a force that would help rebuild Ukraine's armed forces once the fighting ends. 

Those taking part are from Belgium, Estonia, France, Germany, Lithuania, the Netherlands, Poland, Spain, Sweden, Turkey and the UK.

Turkish forces in Istanbul will rehearse maritime mine clearance to help restore commercial shipping to Ukrainian ports.