The United Kingdom is stepping up its support for Ukraine by providing 17 specialist firefighting vehicles to enhance the country’s fire and rescue services. The vehicles, including 15 Rapid Intervention Vehicles and two Major Foam Vehicles, are primarily sourced from the Royal Air Force (RAF) and Defence Fire and Rescue, with one vehicle provided by the Welsh Government.

The equipment, urgently needed to bolster Ukraine’s response to the damage caused by Russia’s use of cruise missiles and attack drones against Ukrainian infrastructure, is expected to arrive in the coming weeks. The vehicles were initially delivered from various locations across the UK to RAF Wittering in Cambridgeshire, where RAF personnel conducted necessary preparations before their onward movement to Ukraine.

Defence Secretary Ben Wallace emphasized the significance of these specialist firefighting vehicles in enhancing Ukraine’s ability to protect its infrastructure from Russia’s ongoing campaign of missile and drone attacks. The UK remains committed to supporting Ukraine for as long as necessary.

Over the past week, personnel from 5001 Squadron meticulously inspected and prepared the vehicles, ensuring they are ready to fulfill their roles. Following the completion of preparations, 2 Mechanical Transport Squadron loaded the vehicles in readiness for their journey to a designated delivery point in Ukraine.

To familiarize Ukrainian Military Fire Service members with the equipment, the RAF and Defence Fire and Rescue organized a week-long training program at RAF Wittering. This training initiative aimed to ensure the Ukrainian personnel are well-prepared to operate the vehicles effectively.

Sim Nex, Defence Chief Fire Officer, expressed pride in the support provided by the Defence Fire and Rescue family, noting that the equipment and training offered will significantly enhance firefighting capabilities. The UK remains committed to exploring further opportunities to support the Ukrainian Military Fire Service going forward.

This provision of specialist firefighting vehicles and training is part of the UK’s ongoing program of assistance to Ukraine, nearly 500 days after Russia’s illegal, full-scale invasion. In 2022, the UK committed £2.3 billion in military aid to Ukraine, and Prime Minister’s Boris Johnson has confirmed that this figure will be matched in 2023.

Air Commodore Jamie Thompson, Commander Global Enablement, affirmed that support to Ukraine through training and equipment provision remains a priority for RAF Global Enablement. The RAF is proud to collaborate with its allies in supplying specialist equipment and training to ensure the safety of the Ukrainian people.

This latest contribution follows previous donations from the UK, including eight tonnes of personal protective equipment for firefighting, medical equipment, and over 100 industrial-strength generators, among other forms of non-lethal aid. The UK’s commitment to supporting Ukraine’s resilience and security in the face of ongoing conflict remains unwavering.