Ukrainian marines to return to fight on frontline after UK-led training complete

Close to 1,000 Ukrainian marines will return to fight against the Russian invasion after spending more than six months being trained by the British military.

The UK-led programme focused on teaching the Ukrainian marines in small boat amphibious operations, which involved participating in beach raids using inflatable boats.

It was the first training initiative of its kind delivered by the UK, supporting Ukraine to build its own distinct marine force, and also included instructors from international partner nations.

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It followed the Prime Minister's announcement on increasing the provision of training packages, which coincided with President Volodymyr Zelensky's trip to the UK in February.

The Ukrainian forces were taught by instructors from 42 Commando, 47 Commando Raiding Group, Army Commandos from 24 Commando Engineers, and Royal Artillery Gunners of 29 Commando.

Defence Secretary Ben Wallace said: "The UK has led the way in training the Armed Forces of Ukraine, providing world-leading training in frontline combat skills to more than 20,000 of Ukraine's Army recruits through Operation Interflex.

"This programme of training, delivered by elite British commandos, will support Ukraine to build its own distinct marine force and expand its capability to operate in a maritime environment."

Approximately 900 Ukrainian marines have completed the course, which included training to use Next Generation Light Anti-Tank Weapons (Nlaw) and Stinger anti-aircraft missiles, use of mortars and drones for reconnaissance, and explosive demolition of obstacles such as Dragon's Teeth anti-vehicle fortifications.

Equipment used in the training is the same as some of the military support the UK has provided to Ukraine, with more than 10,000 anti-tank weapons including thousands of Nlaw systems already provided.

Trainees in the programme came from a variety of backgrounds, with many being civilian volunteers with no prior military experience, while others have transferred from other sections within the Armed Forces of Ukraine – some having already been engaged in combat on the frontline, the Ministry of Defence (MOD) said.

Each training cohort underwent a rigorous five-week programme, developing individual skills including fieldcraft, battlefield first aid, close-quarters combat, and fitness, and unit planning in realistic scenarios.

A Ukrainian marine, who was been through the training, said: “The training I have received from the UK Royal Marines has been far more intense than I expected.

"I have learned so much and never expected to be doing the things I have done.

"All the way through, our British instructors have been beside us, showing us how to move and how to work together in a small team – this will make a difference when we return home to Ukraine."

More than 20,000 Ukrainian military personnel have been trained in the UK since the start of 2022, with the programmes covering expertise like trench and urban warfare and medical training.  

The UK remains committed to supporting Ukraine, with a further £2.3bn earmarked for military support for Ukraine throughout 2023.