Hundreds of British troops have deployed to Poland to rehearse a mission to rebuild the Ukrainian army, marking the first major exercise for the UK-led Multinational Force Ukraine (MNF-U).
The deployment involves approximately 300 soldiers from the British Army's 7 Brigade and is part of Exercise Koalicja, which runs from November 9 to 22. The exercise will test the capabilities of the MNF-U to move, protect, and supply forces that could aid in the reconstruction of Ukraine's armed forces once the conflict concludes.
The MNF-U, co-led by the UK and France and headquartered in Paris, is designed to support Ukraine's long-term stability and security. This exercise involves 2,800 personnel from 11 participating nations: France, Belgium, Estonia, Germany, Lithuania, the Netherlands, Poland, Spain, Sweden, and Turkey.
Defense chiefs have emphasized that the force is not offensive and its deployment to Ukraine remains conditional on the end of hostilities. Lieutenant General Tom Bateman, the British commander leading the MNF-U, stated that the exercise demonstrates the force's readiness and the commitment of participating nations to Ukraine's future security. "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," he said.
The exercise will focus on testing command-and-control systems, rehearsing the logistics of moving personnel and equipment, and ensuring effective integration of multinational components. British soldiers will practice logistical movements, while RAF Typhoons and a Voyager refuelling aircraft will simulate air security operations. Other troops will drill the setup of command centers and the training of Ukrainian recruits. Sailors have also been practicing mine clearance in the Black Sea.
Defence Secretary Wes Streeting stated, "This exercise shows the UK is stepping up, alongside France and our allies, to prepare for the day peace comes to Ukraine. This isn't a hypothetical plan, it's a real force, ready to help Ukraine once the fighting stops." He added that Ukraine's security is integral to the security of the UK and Europe.
Officials have warned that Russia may attempt to oppose the MNF-U's efforts, and the task group is prepared to defend itself against various threats. "Clearly, we will protect our force against any aggression and the principles of defending ourselves and being able to secure the force we have will remain," one official said.
Recent analysis indicates that Russian forces lost significant territory in Ukraine during October, with casualty figures reaching their highest monthly total since the war began. Ukraine's military claims that Russia has suffered over 1.5 million casualties since the full-scale invasion commenced in February 2022.