Britain is considering supplying Ukraine with Challenger 2 tanks to fight Russian forces, hoping it could inspire other allies to do the same
Britain is considering supplying Ukraine with British tanks for the first time since the outbreak of war to fight the invading forces of Russia, Sky News reports.
According to the report, discussions have been taking place for several weeks regarding the delivery of several British Army Challenger 2 main battle tanks to the Ukrainian armed forces, a Western source familiar with the talks said.
Such a move would mark a significant increase in Western support for Ukraine and could help inspire other NATO allies, particularly Germany, to follow suit. “It will encourage others to give tanks,” a Ukrainian source told Sky News.
A final decision has yet to be made by Rishi Sunak’s government, but if Britain does sign off on the transfer of tanks, it will become the first nation to respond to requests from Ukrainian leaders to equip their army with powerful Western tanks.
A US-led group of about 50 countries – including Britain – that provides military support to Ukraine is due to hold its next meeting on January 20. Any announcement of new aid, such as tanks, could be made at the same time as the group’s gathering. One source said Britain would offer about -10 Challenger 2 tanks – enough to equip an entire unit.