UK confirms delivery of additional AS90 howitzers and armored vehicles to Ukraine.

In a recent parliamentary session, British Minister of State for Defence, James Cartlidge, outlined the specific armored vehicles and artillery systems that will comprise a substantial new military aid package to Ukraine. This detail follows Prime Minister Rishi Sunak's April 23, 2024, pledge to provide Ukraine with the largest single package of military equipment ever dispatched from the UK.
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The new UK military aid package for Ukraine includes AS90 155mm howitzers, Scimitar reconnaissance armored vehicles, Husky 4x4 armored personnel carriers and BV206/ Viking All-Terrain Vehicles. 

Minister Cartlidge revealed that the UK will provide over 400 combat and armored vehicles to Ukraine. This includes 160 Husky protected mobility vehicles, 162 armored vehicles with additional AS90 155mm artillery guns and CVRT reconnaissance tracked armored vehicles, as well as 78 all-terrains vehicles BV-206 and Viking. These assets are expected to enhance Ukraine's artillery support, reconnaissance capabilities, and amphibious operations, significantly bolstering the Ukrainian Marine Corps.

Since February 2022, the UK has committed nearly £12 billion in total support to Ukraine, with £7.1 billion specifically for military assistance. This financial commitment spans several years, with £2.3 billion allocated for 2022/23 and 2023/24, and an additional £2.5 billion announced for 2024/25.

The UK's support encompasses a broad range of both lethal and non-lethal military equipment, including tanks, air defense systems, and long-range precision strike missiles. Furthermore, the UK has engaged in several training initiatives for Ukrainian forces, which include fast jet pilot training, though combat aircraft have not been supplied. Additionally, the UK supports Operation Interflex, a training program designed to enhance the capabilities of Ukrainian military personnel.

Since the beginning of the war in Ukraine, the UK has provided Ukraine with a variety of armored vehicles and tanks. This includes 14 Challenger 2 tanks delivered between March and May 2023, 23 FV107 Scimitar Mk IIs in August 2023, and 101 CVR(T) vehicles partially crowdfunded by the Serhiy Prytula Foundation with 24 delivered in March 2023. The support extends to infantry mobility vehicles like the Husky Tactical Support Vehicles and significant artillery capabilities, including 32 AS-90 155mm self-propelled guns delivered in early 2023.

The UK has demonstrated strong support for Ukraine in response to the Russian invasion due to a combination of humanitarian, strategic, and political motivations. From a military and strategic perspective, the UK has positioned itself as one of the leading military donors to Ukraine, with commitments amounting to nearly £12 billion since February 2022. This support includes providing lethal and non-lethal weaponry, such as tanks and air defense systems, as well as extensive training programs for Ukrainian military personnel.

On the humanitarian front, the UK has committed £357 million since the start of the invasion, aiming to alleviate the severe impacts of the war on Ukrainian civilians. This funding supports various international agencies and NGOs in delivering essential aid and services, such as shelter, healthcare, and winter supplies.

Politically, the UK's support is driven by a commitment to uphold international laws and support Ukraine's sovereignty and territorial integrity. This stance is bolstered by a historical perspective of Britain seeing itself as a moral leader on the global stage and its long-standing policy of projecting power and influence to maintain a "rules-based international order".

Overall, the UK's support for Ukraine is multifaceted, involving direct assistance and a broader commitment to international principles and stability in the region.

Defense News April 2024