UK Announces 20,000 British Forces to Boost NATO
LONDON, England – The UK is set to deploy 20,000 service personnel from the Royal Navy, the British Army, and the Royal Air Force to Europe in the first half of 2024. The announcement was made by the Secretary of State for Defence, Grant Shapps MP, during a major speech at Lancaster House. The deployment is part of Exercise Steadfast Defender 24, where the UK’s Armed Forces will join forces with 31 NATO allies and Sweden to enhance deterrence against evolving threats.
Exercise Steadfast Defender 24 is one of NATO’s largest deployments since the end of the Cold War and coincides with the alliance’s 75th year. It aims to reassess and strengthen the collective defense capabilities of NATO nations. The UK’s participation will involve the use of the Royal Air Force’s state-of-the-art fighter jets and surveillance aircraft, the Royal Navy’s advanced warships and submarines, and the Army’s diverse range of capabilities, including logistics, armor, and special operations forces.
During his speech, Defence Secretary Shapps emphasized the importance of being prepared to deter enemies, lead allies, and defend the nation in the face of a changing and dangerous world. He highlighted that adversaries are actively rebuilding their barriers, old enemies are resurfacing, and battle lines are being redrawn. In particular, he mentioned the threatening situation in Ukraine and the need to provide vital reassurance against the Putin menace.
The deployment will include the 7th Light Mechanised Brigade Combat Team (7LMBCT), which played a significant role in the activation of NATO’s Strategic Reserve Force in Kosovo last year. This deployment will mark one of the largest NATO operations since the Cold War and serve to strengthen the coalition between the UK and its NATO allies.
Exercise Steadfast Defender 24 will not only enhance the military capabilities of participating nations, but it also aims to deliver on the promises made at the 2023 NATO summit in Vilnius. By joining forces and operating across multiple countries, NATO nations can collectively address evolving security challenges and ensure the preservation of global stability.
As the UK demonstrates its commitment to NATO and the defense of its allies, this deployment highlights the importance of cooperative efforts in deterring threats, maintaining peace, and safeguarding the world order.
