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| British Army [Photo Credit: Daily Post Nigeria] |
Britain will send 20,000 service men to one of NATO's largest military exercises since the Cold War, as the alliance prepares to repel an invasion by Russian President Vladimir Putin's forces.
Defence Secretary Grant Shapps will announce the deployment of army, navy, and RAF personnel to the 31-nation drill across Europe during a speech in London on Monday.
He stated that the contribution to the Steadfast Defender exercise will provide "vital reassurance against the Putin menace" and warns that the West is at a "crossroads."
The war games came after the ministers announced an additional £2.5 billion ($3.2 billion) in support for Ukraine, as well as RAF airstrikes on the Houthis in Yemen in collaboration with the US.
Mr Shapps will outline his vision for how the UK will deter threats, as allies remain concerned about the threat posed by Putin as his war enters its second year.
Mr Shapps is expected to say in his Lancaster House speech: "We are in a new era, and we must be prepared to deter our enemies, lead our allies, and defend our country whenever the need arises.
"Today, our adversaries are busy rebuilding their walls, old enemies are resurrected, battle lines are being redrawn, tanks are literally on Ukraine's lawn, and the foundations of the world order are being shaken to their core. "We are at a crossroads."
As part of the exercise, the British Army will deploy approximately 16,000 troops, including tanks, artillery, and helicopters, across Eastern Europe beginning next month.
The Royal Navy will send over 2,000 sailors across eight warships and submarines, while more than 400 Royal Marine Commandos will be sent to the Arctic Circle.
The RAF will operate F-35B Lightning attack aircraft and Poseidon P-8 surveillance aircraft.
According to defence sources, the exercise will prepare for any aggressor's invasion of a member state, with Russia and terrorism seen as the main threats.
(dpa/NAN)