Hundreds of Ukrainian Marines Trained by British Commandos for Amphibious Operations

Approximately 1,000 Ukrainian marines are returning to their homeland following an intensive six-month training program conducted by the Royal Marines and Army Commandos of the United Kingdom.

This transformative training, supported by international partners, has prepared the Ukrainian forces to take part in small boat amphibious operations, including beach raids employing inflatable boats.

The initiative was first announced during Ukrainian President Zelenskyy's visit to the UK in February.

Throughout the program, the Ukrainian marines underwent rigorous training, which encompassed the utilization of Next Generation Light Anti-Tank Weapons (NLAW) and Stinger anti-aircraft missiles, as well as mortar and drone operations for reconnaissance. They also learnt the art of explosive demolition, including the clearing of obstacles like Dragon's Teeth anti-vehicle fortifications.

The training program accommodated individuals from diverse backgrounds, including civilian volunteers with no prior military experience and seasoned members of the Armed Forces of Ukraine who had previously seen combat on the frontline. Instructors from 42 Commando, 47 Commando Raiding Group, 24 Commando Engineers, and Royal Artillery Gunners from 29 Commando played pivotal roles in delivering the training. Furthermore, instructors from the Netherlands Marine Corps also contributed to the comprehensive training curriculum.

The training program consisted of a five-week regimen, focusing on individual skills such as fieldcraft, battlefield first aid, close quarters combat, and physical fitness. Moreover, it included unit planning in realistic scenarios, further enhancing Ukraine's capability to build its own marine force and develop an international training concept for marines.

This effort is part of a broader commitment by the UK to support Ukraine. More than 20,000 recruits from the Armed Forces of Ukraine have already received training in the UK since the beginning of 2022, covering a range of essential frontline skills. In early 2023, the UK pledged to train an additional 20,000 Ukrainian recruits.

The training for the Armed Forces of Ukraine is a collaborative effort, with support from Australia, Canada, Denmark, Finland, Lithuania, the Netherlands, New Zealand, Norway, and Sweden.

The UK has £2.3 billion allocated for further military support throughout 2023, including the delivery of munitions and equipment in the coming months. Additionally, the UK government continues to provide humanitarian support and economic aid to Ukraine.