UK vows Challenger 2 tanks deployment to Ukraine; here's how it will help Kyiv

The United Kingdom has agreed to send Challengers to the Ukrainian military in a bid to bolster the supply of western tanks to Kyiv.

UK's Statement

No 10 said that PM Sunak and Ukraine president Zelenskyy discussed Ukrainian victories and spoke about the 'need to seize on this moment with an acceleration of global military and diplomatic support'.

Ukraine's Response

President Zelenskyy thanked the UK PM and said that the decision to send the tanks will strengthen them on the battlefield. It will also send the 'right signal to other Ukrainian partners.'

Appreciating the UK's support, Zelenskyy tweeted, 'always strong support' and 'is now impenetrable' which is making Ukraine 'ready for challenges.'

What are Challenger 2 tanks?

The Challengers were built in the late 1990s and are British Army's main battle tank. They are more than twenty years old but will still be the most modern tank in Ukraine's military. It is reported that the UK has 227 Challenger 2 tanks in total, but many of them cannot be deployed due to their condition. It is believed that the tanks which would make their way to Ukraine must be sent along with spare parts, and ammunition.

UK PM Rishi Sunak said that these tanks would help Ukrainian forces 'push Russian troops back'. Ukraine can use Challengers for more 'accurate firepower' and 'better protection.'

United Kingdom's Motive

UK's 'game-changing donation' as reported by BBC, may inspire other nations to come forward for Ukraine's help and donate more modern artillery. It is believed that Germany may deploy its Leopard 2 tank, manufactured in vast numbers, now widely used by several EU nations.

Russia's Response

Reacting to the UK's move to help Ukraine, Kremlin said that 'supplies of weapons are legitimate targets for Russian strikes' and that they have reiterated the same stance earlier as well.

FAQs

Which nation is at war with Ukraine?
Russia launched a full-scale invasion of Ukraine in 2022.

Who is the current president of Ukraine?
Volodymyr Zelenskyy