Nearly 1,000 Ukrainian marines receive commando raiding training in UK

The press service of the Royal Navy reported on the training.

The UK Commando Force's specialist instructors shared their invaluable experience and expertise with the students on how to plan and execute small boat raids both during the day and at night. 

“The training I received from the UK Royal Marines has been much more intense than I anticipated,” one unnamed Ukrainian Marine said.

“I've learnt a ton, and I never imagined doing the things I've done. All the way through, our British instructors have been beside us, showing us how to move and how to work together in a small team – this will make a difference when we return home to Ukraine," he added.

Each training group undertook a challenging five-week program that helped each member train their personal field-survival, first aid, close-quarters fighting, fitness, and unit-planning abilities. The training will enhance Ukraine's capability to create its own maritime force and an international training concept for marines.

Approximately 900 Ukrainian marines completed the course, which included instruction in the use of mortars, Next Generation Light Anti-Tank Weapons (NLAW) and Stinger anti-aircraft missiles, drones for reconnaissance, and explosive demolition of obstacles such as Dragon’s Teeth anti-vehicle fortifications.

Equipment used in the training has been identical to some of the military aid the UK has provided to Ukraine – such as more than 10,000 anti-tank weapons, including thousands of NLAW systems.

“This programme of training, delivered by elite British commandos, will support Ukraine to build its own distinct marine force and expand its capability to operate in a maritime environment,” Defence Secretary Ben Wallace said.

More than 20,000 soldiers from the Armed Forces of Ukraine have already received training in the UK since the start of 2022, learning essential frontline skills including trench and urban warfare, leadership, and medical training.

At the start of 2023, the UK committed to train a further 20,000 Ukrainian recruitsunder one of the largest training programmes of its kind in the world.