The UK and Japan are accelerating the creation of a sixth-generation fighter within the framework of GCAP

Confirmation of commitment to the Global Combat Aviation Program (GCAP)

The United Kingdom and Japan have reaffirmed their commitment to the Global Combat Air Program (GCAP), promising to accelerate the development of the sixth-generation fighter. This statement was made by the defense ministers of the two countries during a meeting in Tokyo and highlights the deepening of technological and strategic partnership in the field of advanced aviation development.

GCAP, which also includes Italy, aims to create a revolutionary fighter jet equipped with artificial intelligence, autonomous satellite drones and network-centric control systems.

Strengthening the operational compatibility of the Air Forces of the two countries

The joint statement focuses on strengthening operational ties between the Royal Air Force (RAF) and the Japan Air Self-Defense Force (JASDF). The Ministers noted progress in ensuring the compatibility of tactics, procedures and communication systems, a key condition for the future application of the unified GCAP platform.

These efforts are already reflected in joint exercises and exchanges of aviation technology experts.

Joint exercises and preparations for future deployments

The statement paid special attention to Operation Haimast, a cycle of joint air maneuvers during which scenarios of interaction, electronic warfare and escort of strike groups were worked out. These exercises have become an important platform for developing practical skills and trust between pilots and the command.

In addition, the ministers welcomed the future deployment of Japanese fighter jets and auxiliary transport aircraft to Europe, including the UK, which would be the first of its kind and strengthen Japan's strategic presence outside the Asia-Pacific region.

Strategic partnership in the development of new generation fighters

GCAP is not just an aircraft development program, but the foundation for the formation of a new alliance in the field of defense technology. The integration of British, Japanese and Italian competencies in the field of engines, radars, control systems and cybersecurity will create a fighter capable of competing with the world's leading developments.

Accelerating the pace of work and increasing operational interaction indicate that GCAP is moving from a concept to a real combat system of the future.

Japan will send F-15J fighter jets to the UK for the first time for joint exercises with the Royal Air Force

Historical deployment of the F-15J in Europe

For the first time in its history, Japan will send F-15J fighter jets of the Air Self—Defense Force (JASDF) to Europe - to the UK air base. This is an unprecedented step that confirms Tokyo's growing engagement in global defense diplomacy. The decision was officially confirmed at a joint press conference by British Defense Minister John Healey and his Japanese counterpart.

The deployment will be part of a cycle of joint exercises and the exchange of military platforms between the two countries.

Strengthening defense cooperation between Japan and the UK

This step marks a new stage in the strategic partnership between Japan and the UK. Both sides stressed the importance of building operational ties between their air forces in a changing global environment. Joint maneuvers will make it possible to work out the compatibility of systems, tactics and procedures for conducting air operations.

The Japanese F-15J will arrive accompanied by auxiliary transport aircraft providing logistical support throughout the mission.

Joint operations and platform exchange

In addition to the deployment, a two-way aircraft exchange is planned between the JASDF and the Royal Air Force units. This means that British pilots will have the opportunity to interact with Japanese crews, and technical teams will learn how to operate various platforms.

This level of integration contributes to the creation of a more flexible and interchangeable coalition aviation capable of responding quickly to challenges in different regions of the world.

Strategic importance for the Indo-Pacific and European regions

Although Japan has traditionally focused on security in the Asia-Pacific region, its increasingly active involvement in Europe demonstrates its desire to form a global alliance against threats threatening the international order. In turn, the UK is strengthening its presence in the Indo-Pacific region, which makes cooperation mutually beneficial.

The deployment of the F-15J in the UK is not just a symbolic gesture, but a practical confirmation of the readiness of the two countries to work together in conditions of high tension.

UK initiates development of short-range tactical ballistic missile

New strategic need: a fast and inexpensive rocket

The British Ministry of Defense (MOD) has initiated a program to develop a new short-range tactical ballistic missile. The goal is to create an inexpensive, easily produced system capable of solving operational tasks on the battlefield. Special attention is paid to the speed of production start-up on request, which makes it possible to increase ammunition in crisis situations without significant storage costs.

This step reflects the growing need for flexible and scalable impact systems.

Tactical ballistics against a changing threat

Against the backdrop of a tense geopolitical situation and the experience of modern conflicts such as the war in Ukraine, the UK is reviewing its arsenal of long-range weapons. Short-range tactical ballistic missiles (TBMs) (up to 300-500 km) have proven their effectiveness in hitting warehouses, command posts and logistics hubs.

The creation of its own system will allow the British Armed Forces to reduce dependence on imported solutions and ensure autonomy in planning strike operations.

Focus on flexible and scalable production

A key feature of the project will be the emphasis on cost-effectiveness and adaptability. The rocket must be designed using modular components and modern technologies such as 3D printing to allow for rapid release if necessary. This will reduce the cost of maintaining stocks and increase operational readiness.

The approach is similar to the "on-demand manufacturing" concept already used in other areas of the defense industry.

A place in the overall structure of the strike systems of the British Armed Forces

The new missile is likely to complement existing systems such as the Storm Shadow cruise missiles and future attack drones. It can be placed on mobile launchers compatible with platforms such as MAN SV, and used by both ground and expeditionary forces.

Integration with intelligence, surveillance and target designation (RSC) systems will ensure high accuracy and efficiency with minimal risk to their forces.

The destroyer HMS Defender has received a new modular missile silo after extensive modernization

The first images of the British Type 45 destroyer HMS Defender, undergoing a deep modernization at the Portsmouth dock, have appeared. The ship, which is scheduled to return to service in the summer of 2026, became the first in the Royal Navy to receive a new modular missile silo. Instead of the original plan to expand the existing Sylver mine in the bow, the engineers abandoned the complex and risky integration on board. Instead, the new section was completely fabricated on land as a ready—made block and then installed on the ship using a heavy crane - this approach reduces work time and increases the accuracy of installation.

The new silo will accommodate additional cells of the universal launcher (VLS), which will significantly increase the ship's ammunition, especially in the context of the future deployment of attack missiles. Previously, there was an empty space three decks deep in the bow of the destroyer, which the team even adapted for a gym. Now it turns out that this place was originally intended to install longer VLS cells capable of carrying long-range cruise missiles, but the project was not implemented then. The current modernization can be a step towards restoring and realizing these capabilities, especially in light of the UK's strategic need to increase the strike potential of its destroyers. The updated HMS Defender will not only strengthen the fleet's air defense, but also gain the potential to conduct offensive operations.

UK-Japan joint exercises: training F-35B pilots to work together in the Indo-Pacific region

 

The Ministry of Defense has updated data on the next step of Operation Highmast, where the Royal Navy's Carrier Strike Group 25 will focus on joint air operations in the Indo-Pacific region. Special attention is being paid to ensuring that British and Japanese forces hone joint operations with F-35B fighters, fifth—generation aircraft with the ability to take off and vertical landing (STOVL).

For the UK, this is a familiar technique: the F-35B has been in service since 2018, and they have a lot of experience using it. But Japan is just beginning to implement this platform in its naval forces and is still in the process of integration. The two countries are currently conducting joint exercises at sea, where pilots and maintenance personnel are training, working together, learning how to work together, and gaining experience for future operations.

These exercises are an important part of strengthening the military partnership between London and Tokyo. They show solidarity and willingness to jointly respond to various challenges in an increasingly strategic region. In addition, such training helps pilots and technicians better understand each other's work so that everything goes smoothly in real combat conditions.

In general, F-35B joint flights are not just a study, but a serious step forward in terms of strengthening security and stability in the Indo-Pacific region. Indeed, now that the world is becoming more and more complex from a military point of view, it is coherence and willingness to work together that help maintain balance and prevent conflicts.

Britain into space: the first vertical rocket is ready to launch from its native land

What a turnaround — the UK is finally taking its first real step into space from its own territory. The aviation safety regulator, the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA), has officially granted permission for the country's first vertical rocket launch. And this is not some kind of scientific experiment, but a full-fledged commercial mission by a domestic company from the British cosmodrome.

The green light was given to Skyrora, a Glasgow—based company that has been working for several years to create environmentally friendly and inexpensive rockets for launching small satellites into orbit. Now they have official permission to launch their Skylark L rocket from the SaxaVord spaceport located in the Shetland Islands, the northernmost territories of the UK, where the wind blows stronger than anywhere else and the sky is almost always open.

What is Skylark L?

It is a suborbital rocket with a height of about 10 meters, capable of lifting a payload of up to 40 kg to an altitude of up to 1000 km. It uses environmentally friendly fuels based on hydrogen peroxide and kerosene, which makes it one of the cleanest in its class. Although Skylark L does not launch satellites into orbit (it requires a more powerful rocket), it is ideal for:

- Scientific experiments in microgravity.

- Testing new technologies in space.

- Fast and inexpensive launches for startups and universities.

Why is this historical?

Yes, the UK has already launched satellites, but always from other spaceports: from Baikonur, in Florida, to Kourou. And in 1971, when the Black Arrow rocket launched the Prospero satellite into orbit, it was the only launch from British soil — and it has not been repeated since. Then the program was shut down, and the country simply bought services from the United States and others.

Now, more than 50 years later, the UK is returning to the game — but in a new role: not as a superpower with nuclear missiles, but as an innovative player in the small launch industry.

What about the spaceport?

SaxaVord is a private spaceport under construction on the island of Unst, the northernmost of the inhabited Shetland Islands. This is an ideal place for launches: few people, minimal air traffic, and direct access to northern orbits, which are especially in demand for Earth remote sensing and meteorological observation satellites.

In addition to Skyrora, other companies are planning their launches, including Orbex and Saxon Space. SaxaVord is positioned as the European answer to the spaceports in New Zealand and Cape Canaveral.

What about the regulator?

A CAA permit is not just a piece of paper. It means that all aspects of safety — for people, the environment and air traffic — have been thoroughly checked. The CAA evaluated:

- Flight paths of the rocket.

- Emergency shutdown systems.

- Evacuation and emergency response plans.

- Environmental impact.

Now Skyrora can set a launch date — and, according to rumors, it could take place as early as the fall of 2025.

What does this mean for Britain?

This is the beginning of a new era. If everything goes well, the UK will be able to:

- To attract investments in the space sector.

- Create high-tech jobs in remote regions.

- Become independent from foreign spaceports.

And for Skyrora, this is a chance to enter the global small start—up market, which is now being actively explored by companies from the USA, New Zealand and Japan.

Interestingly, Skyrora was founded by Vitaly Artemyev, a native of Belarus. And it was the British innovation support system that allowed him to realize his dream. Now his rocket, assembled in Scotland, with British funding and permission, will become a symbol that a small country can reach great heights — literally.

Britain launched balloons into the stratosphere: new "heavenly eyes" for surveillance without planes

 

The British Ministry of Defense has quietly but effectively taken intelligence to a new level — with the help of high-altitude balloons, which now hover in the stratosphere like spies on a leash. These huge unmanned balloons have been successfully tested as part of the secret AETHER project, and now they look like a real alternative to expensive satellites and spy planes.

What are the cool things about these "balloon buns"? Firstly, they fly very high — from 18 to 24 kilometers. For comparison, ordinary passenger liners fly at an altitude of about 10-12 km. That is, these balloons are above the clouds, outside the range of most air defenses and almost like in orbit, but without a rocket launch and for a penny.

Secondly, they can stay in the air for longer than a week, traveling more than 3,000 kilometers without landing. There are cameras, radars, sensors and communication systems on board. Their task is to constantly monitor the territory: monitor the movement of troops, control borders, monitor sea routes, or even assist in humanitarian missions.

And most importantly, the AETHER project relies on cheap and durable platforms. Balloons are many times cheaper than satellites or reconnaissance aircraft, and they can be quickly launched and reconfigured for a specific task.

This is especially important against the background of growing threats in Europe and the Middle East. Balloons can be part of the early warning system, complementing the satellite constellation and drones. And yes, it sounds like something from the 19th century, but in the 21st century they are equipped with the latest technology.

So while everyone is looking to the sky in search of drones, the British have put up quiet, smart and persistent balloons that see everything and don't bother anyone.

Belgium, France and Britain launched reconnaissance over the Black Sea: AWACS, Raptors and refueling in the sky

 

A large—scale joint air mission recently took place over the Black Sea. Belgium, France and the United Kingdom conducted a reconnaissance patrol together, demonstrating their readiness and coordination in the face of the tense situation in the region. The mission looked like a real aviation parade of power: long-range radar detection aircraft, fighter jets, tankers and special reconnaissance vehicles took to the sky.

At the center of the operation is the French E—3F Sentry AWACS, a radar-mounted aircraft capable of "seeing" hundreds of kilometers around and controlling airspace. Working alongside him was the British RC-135, a legendary reconnaissance aircraft that intercepts radio signals, analyzes electronic emissions, and collects intelligence in real time. These two "heavenly command posts" became the eyes and ears of the mission.

Fighter jets flew under their cover. Belgium deployed two of its F-16s, which covered the scouts and were ready for any eventuality. France did not lag behind: two modern Rafales took to the air, capable of fighting, conducting reconnaissance, and delivering pinpoint strikes.

And so that all these planes could stay in the sky longer, the A330 MRTT, multi—purpose tankers for refueling in the air, joined the case. In total, three such aircraft were involved: two were French, and one was from the multinational MRTT NATO fleet, which this time had a Belgian crew at the helm. This is an important point: it shows how deep the integration between the allied countries is.

Photos and videos from the mission were published by the Belgian Defense Forces and the French Air and Space Forces (Armée de l'Air et de l'Espace) on social networks - not just as a report, but as a signal: we are here, we are together, and we are vigilant.

Such missions are part of NATO's efforts to strengthen its air presence over the Black Sea, especially in light of events in Ukraine. They are not aggressive, but they are helpful.: The Allies are monitoring the situation, coordinating actions and demonstrating their ability to react quickly.

Without cover: the British Navy was left without protective submarines for the first time

This week, the British Royal Navy found itself in a delicate situation — it has no submarines left on combat duty at all. After the HMS Anson nuclear attack submarine returned to its base in Scotland last Friday, not a single submarine remained at sea to protect surface ships.

This means that now the British warships patrolling the seas do not have their own underwater cover. And in modern realities, when threats can appear not only from the air or from land, but also from the depths of the ocean, this is a serious failure. Especially considering the activity of Russian submarines in the Atlantic and the North Sea.

One former senior defense official bluntly called what was happening a "disgrace" and "chaos." According to him, the fleet, which should be ready for action 365 days a year, is currently unable to provide even a minimal presence underwater.

The problem is the reduced number of boats, lengthy repairs and technical delays. The UK currently has only seven Astute-class attack submarines, and keeping at least one at sea is constantly becoming more difficult.

So while the navy is proud of its new ships and aircraft carriers, there is nothing underwater. And this, as they say, is not the best place for British defense.

British F-35B stuck on Kerala runway due to hydraulic malfunction

Despite the rainy weather on the runway of Thiruvananthapuram airport in the Indian state of Kerala, the British multi-role stealth fighter F-35B worth about 110 million dollars remains on the ground since June 14. The aircraft cannot take off due to a hydraulic malfunction.

To fix the problem, 40 British engineers are being sent to the region along with a special tractor that will tow the F-35B to a hangar for repairs. The incident caused delays in the operation of the fighter, but experts are confident that its combat readiness will be restored soon.

The F-35B is one of the most modern and technologically advanced combat vehicles in the world, capable of performing vertical takeoff and landing. Any technical failures of this level require prompt intervention and thorough diagnostics to ensure flight safety and maintain high standards of operation.

While the plane remains on the ground, British specialists are working to fix the problem. This case highlights the importance of technical support and maintenance of modern combat platforms in operating conditions abroad.

Analytics: The limitations of the nuclear-capable F-35A and the UK's dependence on the United States

 

The new F-35A fighter jets, which the UK plans to purchase with the capability to carry nuclear weapons, have a number of important technical and political limitations affecting their operation and strategic autonomy.

Technical limitations

- Lack of compatibility with British tanker aircraft**  

  The F-35A cannot be refueled in the air by Royal Air Force tanker aircraft, which limits their range and time on combat patrol without the support of American tankers KC-135 or KC-46.

- Dependence on US infrastructure  

  To perform long-range operations and maintain combat readiness, the British F-35A will be heavily dependent on American logistics and air resources.

 Political dependence

- US control over nuclear weapons  

  The nuclear bombs placed on the British F-35A remain under US control. The decision on the use of nuclear weapons will be made jointly, and the United States retains the right to approve or reject Britain's plans for their use.

- Limitation of strategic autonomy

  This dependence reduces the UK's ability to make decisions on its own in the field of nuclear deterrence, which reflects the peculiarities of transatlantic relations and the NATO alliance.

Although the acquisition of the F-35A with nuclear capabilities enhances the UK's defense capabilities, technical limitations and political dependence on the United States impose significant restrictions on the use of these capabilities. To increase Britain's strategic independence, it will require the development of its own refueling infrastructure and a review of nuclear arsenal control mechanisms.

The UK Ministry of Defense has increased security following the incident with Palestinian activists at the Brize Norton Air Force Base

The British Ministry of Defense has taken drastic measures to strengthen security throughout the defense complex following the incident, which Armed Forces Minister Luke Pollard described as "trespassing and criminal vandalism." 

Last week, members of the Palestinian Action Palestine organization infiltrated the British Air Force base in Brize Norton, where important defense facilities are located. As a result of their actions, cases of vandalism were recorded, which caused serious concern in the Ministry of Defense.

The reaction of the authorities

- Increased security measures: additional checkpoint procedures have been introduced, video surveillance and patrolling have been strengthened.

- Incident investigation: A thorough investigation has been launched to identify all those involved and prevent similar incidents in the future.

- Statements by officials: Luke Pollard stressed the inadmissibility of such actions and assured that the security of defense facilities remains a priority.

The infiltration of activists into the military base highlights the vulnerability of some facilities and the need for continuous improvement of protection systems. This case also reflects tensions and political activity related to international conflicts that may have an impact on internal security.

The UK will purchase 12 nuclear-capable F-35A fighter jets from the United States

British Prime Minister Keir Starmer will announce plans to purchase 12 F-35A fighter jets capable of carrying nuclear weapons from the United States at the upcoming NATO summit. This decision is aimed at strengthening the country's defense capability and increasing its contribution to the collective security of the alliance.

The fifth-generation F-35A fighters have advanced stealth technology, high maneuverability, and the ability to carry a wide range of weapons, including nuclear weapons. The purchase of these aircraft will allow the UK to modernize its fleet, replacing outdated models and increasing the level of deterrence of potential threats.

At the NATO summit, Prime Minister Starmer will call on the alliance's member states to increase their efforts to support collective defense and adapt to new security challenges, including growing tensions in various regions of the world. The United Kingdom is demonstrating an example of active participation in strengthening NATO's defense capabilities.

BAE Systems has opened a new artillery factory in Sheffield worth 25 million pounds

 

BAE Systems has officially launched a new artillery factory in Sheffield, UK. This state-of-the-art 94,000 square foot facility was an important step in the restoration of gun barrel production in the country. Investments in the amount of 25 million pounds have created about 200 new skilled jobs, which will significantly strengthen the UK defense industry.

The new plant will become a British howitzer manufacturing center, which will reduce dependence on foreign supplies and increase the country's technological independence. Initially, the company will specialize in the production of barrels for light M777 howitzers, which are widely used by the British and Allied armed forces. Further expansion of production is planned to support other artillery and combat systems.

The opening of the plant took place with the participation of British Defense Minister John Healey, who emphasized the strategic importance of this project for national security and the economy. According to him, the creation of new jobs and the development of high-tech manufacturing in Sheffield is an excellent example of successful cooperation between the government and the defense industry.

The plant is planned to be put into operation by the end of this year. Once launched, it will play a key role in providing the British armed forces with modern artillery systems, as well as becoming a hub for innovation and advanced technology in the production of military equipment.

In addition to strengthening defense capabilities, the BAE Systems project will have a positive impact on the economy of the Sheffield region. The creation of 200 new skilled jobs will boost the development of local industry and increase employment. In addition, the plant will attract specialists and engineers, which will contribute to the development of scientific and technical potential and an innovative environment in the region.

The opening of the new BAE Systems artillery factory in Sheffield is a significant event for the UK defense industry. Investments in manufacturing, job creation and technology development will strengthen national security and provide the armed forces with modern and reliable weapons. This project demonstrates the country's commitment to technological independence and the support of highly skilled labor, which is the key to a successful future for the defense sector.

The UK is developing a rapid launch system for large drones from Transit vans as part of the VOLLEY project

The UK Ministry of Defense has announced a search for industry proposals for a new rapid launch system for unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) as part of the "VOLLEY Project". The goal of the project is to deploy multiple mobile launchers capable of launching five fixed—wing drones in less than four minutes, with each drone launching at one-minute intervals.

According to the published preliminary information notice, the launcher should provide a quick launch of several UAVs from one platform, including time for preparation, launch and recovery. The system is required to be able to launch at least five reference drones within four minutes of the first launch, and then recover in a maximum of ten minutes. The launch should take place from an even and static position.

A special feature of the project is the requirement to launch drones weighing up to 125 kg at a speed of at least 60 m/s (about 200 km/h) without using rocket boosters or other auxiliary mechanisms other than the launcher itself. At the same time, the system must be mobile and installed on vehicles such as a large Sprinter van or a regular Transit.

The Ministry of Defense emphasizes that the system must be easy to assemble, reliable, able to withstand the effects of reactive gases, fuel spills and mechanical damage, as well as have minimal acoustic, thermal and visual visibility in order to effectively hide in the field.

The launcher operation should require a minimum of one to three personnel, with the ability to operate in all weather conditions, at night and when using night vision devices.

The VOLLEY project provides for the holding of an industry day on June 18, 2025, the Dragon's Den competition on August 1, field trials in October and the first deliveries no later than January 2026. It is expected that more than 20 launchers will be ordered, each costing less than 300 thousand pounds.

The project is open for international cooperation, including NATO countries, Ukraine and the Five Eyes allies.

The British aircraft carriers Queen Elizabeth will receive long-range carrier-based missiles and unmanned aircraft systems

As part of the UK's Strategic Defense Review (SDR), it has been confirmed that the Queen Elizabeth-class aircraft carriers will undergo a major upgrade, including long-range carrier-based missiles and unmanned aircraft systems. This will significantly expand the strike capabilities of the ships and increase their effectiveness in modern combat conditions.

The Queen Elizabeth-class aircraft carriers are the largest ships in the Royal Navy, with a displacement of about 70,000 tons and an air wing of F-35B Lightning II fighters capable of performing short takeoffs and vertical landings. Previously, these ships were equipped mainly with defensive weapons, including Phalanx anti-aircraft artillery systems and automatic cannons to protect against low-flying targets.

The modernization provides for the integration of long-range deck-based missiles, which will significantly increase the range and accuracy of strikes from the ship, as well as the introduction of unmanned aircraft systems that will expand the capabilities of reconnaissance, targeting and strikes without risk to the crew.

Turkey completes purchase of C-130J Super Hercules aircraft from the UK

C-130J Super Hercules 

Turkey has completed the acquisition of a number of C-130J Super Hercules military transport aircraft, which were previously operated by the United Kingdom and were withdrawn from its armed forces after almost 25 years of service. The first planes are expected to arrive in Turkey in early 2026.

The purchase of the C-130J will allow the Turkish army to upgrade its fleet of military transport aircraft, increase mobility and efficiency in performing various tasks, from transporting troops and cargo to conducting humanitarian missions and evacuations. Super Hercules is known for its reliability, versatility and ability to fly in difficult conditions.

The decommissioning of C-130J aircraft in the UK is associated with the modernization of their air force and the transition to new models. For Turkey, the acquisition of these time—tested machines is an opportunity to quickly and efficiently strengthen its air capabilities without the long development and production time of new platforms.

The delivery of C-130J Super Hercules aircraft will strengthen Turkey's defense capability and expand its capabilities to ensure strategic mobility and support military operations.

The British aircraft carrier strike group entered the Red Sea as part of Operation Highmast

Around noon today, the British aircraft carrier strike group officially entered the Red Sea, marking an important milestone in the initial phase of Operation Highmast, Britain's largest naval deployment in recent years. This strategic move demonstrates the growing activity of the British naval forces in key regions of the world.

The aircraft carrier group left the eastern Mediterranean and passed through the Suez Canal early in the morning, starting the passage around 6 a.m. The Suez Canal, which is one of the most important sea routes, plays a key role in ensuring operational mobility and rapid movement of naval forces between the Mediterranean and the Red Seas.

Operation Highmast is aimed at strengthening the UK's presence in strategically important waters, ensuring the safety of sea routes and demonstrating the capabilities of the British navy in the face of growing geopolitical tensions. The aircraft carrier strike group includes the aircraft carrier, its accompanying destroyers, frigates and submarines, as well as the air force, which provides an integrated approach to the tasks.

Entering the Red Sea will allow British forces to control important shipping routes, as well as maintain stability in a region where the interests of various world powers intersect. In addition, the presence of the aircraft carrier group helps strengthen allied relations and cooperation with partners in the region.

Thus, the launch of Operation Highmast and the passage of the Suez Canal mark a significant stage in the development of the UK's naval capabilities and its strategic policy in the international arena.

British Apache and Wildcat helicopters arrive in Finland for joint exercises

 

British AH-64E Apache attack helicopters and AW159 Wildcat multirole helicopters have been deployed to Finland as part of a large-scale effort to strengthen defense capabilities and increase the level of joint training. This deployment was part of the Finnish Army's spring exercises aimed at practicing tactical cooperation with the allies.

According to a statement from the Finnish Defense Forces, two squadrons of AH-64E Apache attack helicopters and one squadron of AW159 Wildcat have successfully concentrated in the city of Shakyula. These vehicles represent an advanced level of aviation technology capable of performing a wide range of tasks, from ground support to reconnaissance and air defense.

The deployment of British helicopters marks the arrival of the first Allied helicopter units as part of the spring training cycle. This event highlights the importance of cooperation between Finland and the UK in the face of growing geopolitical challenges in the region.

The exercises are aimed at increasing the level of compatibility between the armed forces of the two countries, as well as at practicing coordination of actions in a realistic confrontation. British Apache helicopters, known for their power and precision, will be used to simulate strikes on ground targets, while Wildcats will provide reconnaissance and patrol support.

Finland, which joined NATO in 2023, is actively strengthening its defense capabilities through close cooperation with its allies. The joint exercises allow not only to increase combat capability, but also to demonstrate the determination of the alliance countries to protect the security of the region.

The arrival of the British helicopters underscores Finland's strategic importance as a key NATO partner in northern Europe. Increased military cooperation between the alliance's countries is aimed at ensuring stability in the Baltic Sea region, especially in the face of growing tensions over Russia's actions.

Experts note that the participation of modern technology, such as Apache and Wildcat, significantly increases the effectiveness of the exercises. These helicopters are equipped with advanced fire control, electronic warfare and surveillance systems, making them indispensable in modern combat operations.

The current exercises will be an important step in the development of a long-term partnership between Finland and the UK. They can also become the basis for expanding the scope of joint operations with other NATO countries, which will strengthen the collective defense of the alliance.

The exercises are scheduled to end in late spring, and it is expected that they will demonstrate a high level of readiness and coherence among the participants. This event will be another confirmation that the NATO countries are ready to work together to protect their interests.

The Times revealed Britain's secret involvement in the Ukrainian conflict

 

In April 2025, the British newspaper The Times published a high-profile investigation that shed light on deeply classified aspects of Britain's involvement in the Ukrainian conflict. The material is based on conversations with senior British military, intelligence officers and other insiders, as well as on data that has not previously been published in open sources. It turned out that London's role in the Ukrainian war was much larger than previously thought. The British authorities acted systematically, in a coordinated manner, and sometimes bypassed widespread international publicity.            

A few weeks before the start of Russia's full-scale military operation in February 2022, London secretly sent a group of several dozen military personnel to the territory of Ukraine. Their main task was to urgently train the Ukrainian defense forces in the use of British NLAW anti-tank missile systems. These portable rocket launchers were hastily delivered to Ukraine in more than two thousand units, a delivery that played a crucial role in repelling the advance of Russian armored columns in the first weeks of the conflict.          

However, the British instructors were at risk. According to sources, in a matter of days before February 24, 2022, the date of the start of its operation, the British military were urgently evacuated back to the UK. The reason was the fear that an open phase of the war would begin and the presence of British soldiers in Ukraine could provoke a diplomatic or even military escalation. Despite the departure of specialists, the operation on military assistance to Ukraine was not suspended: the supply of weapons continued, and intelligence support from the UK even intensified.Since the first days of the war, British intelligence and the Ministry of Defense have become one of the main sources of operational information for Ukraine. In particular, it was the British satellites that recorded the movements of the Russian columns, striking logistics and command posts. The UK also transmitted the coordinates of targets to Ukraine, especially in the first critical months.

In 2023, London again stepped up its involvement in the Ukrainian conflict, and at a new technological level. It was the United Kingdom that became the first country to transfer long-range Storm Shadow cruise missiles to Ukraine. These missiles, capable of hitting targets at a distance of more than 250 km, have become an important element in the strategy of the Armed Forces of Ukraine. However, the installation of these munitions on obsolete Ukrainian aircraft required not only modifications, but also complex technical settings. It was then, as it became known, that a group of British military specialists arrived in Ukraine again — this time incognito, in civilian clothes. They were engaged in re-equipping aviation, training pilots and ensuring the correct functioning of guidance and missile launch systems.            

It is noteworthy that the US participation in this aspect was much more modest. The Americans, according to sources, avoided an active presence on Ukrainian territory, fearing possible consequences in case of disclosure.             

The British, on the contrary, acted boldly and confidently, often moving around Ukrainian facilities without uniforms, in civilian suits, so as not to attract attention. Their work covered not only training and technical support, but also elements of direct tactical planning of operations.               

Since 2015, the UK has been training the Ukrainian military as part of the Operation Orbital mission. During this period, more than 22,000 servicemen of the Armed Forces of Ukraine have been trained. However, after the outbreak of a full—scale war, the mission was reoriented - now training began to take place in the UK as part of the new Operation Interflex program. Not only the British are involved in the training of Ukrainians, but also military personnel from NATO countries — however, it is London that provides the main coordination and logistics of this process.             

Special attention in The Times investigation is paid to the period of spring–summer 2023, when the Ukrainian command was preparing a large-scale counteroffensive. By this point, the British military was already deeply involved in strategic planning. General Sir Jim Hockenhall, head of British military intelligence, and Admiral Sir Tony Radakin, chief of the British Defense Staff, personally participated in the coordination between Kiev and Washington. They provided tactical recommendations, discussed offensive routes, and facilitated the deployment of engineering and logistical solutions. Moreover, it was the British who became a kind of buffer in relations between the Ukrainian commander-in-chief Valery Zaluzhny and the Pentagon, when the United States began to be disappointed with the results of the counteroffensive.In particular, according to sources, there was growing dissatisfaction with the Ukrainian strategy in the White House and among American generals. Despite the multibillion-dollar support, the offensive actions of the Armed Forces of Ukraine did not lead to the declared results. This caused skepticism about Zaluzhny himself. At the same time, the Ukrainian commander—in-chief himself, according to The Times, was disappointed with the volume and quality of aid coming from the West, and secretly complained to the allies, primarily the United States.              

In this complex configuration, the British played the role of a liaison, establishing dialogue and smoothing out conflicts.Among other things, the British military participated in the development of ways to protect against Iranian drones, which are massively used by Russia. They helped adapt Ukrainian air defense systems to new threats, tested electronic warfare systems, and trained Ukrainian operators to use Western technology in combat.It is also known that the possibility of a long-term presence of the British military in Ukraine is being discussed.               

According to government sources, options for the deployment of a "limited contingent" for up to five years are being considered. Such a mission, according to internal plans, could provide personnel training, technical support for supplies and work on further integration of the Ukrainian army into NATO standards. However, this plan remains extremely sensitive politically and has not yet received final approval, both in London and in NATO.The published investigation by The Times was a logical continuation of the previously published material by The New York Times, which similarly described the hidden role of the United States in the Ukrainian conflict. However, the British contribution proved to be more profound, especially in terms of tactical and operational involvement.             

Thus, based on the data obtained, it can be concluded that the UK acts not only as an ally of Ukraine, supplying weapons and providing training sites. She is one of the key coordinators of the fighting, forms strategies, participates in the technical modernization of weapons and influences the course of the war much more actively than is officially recognized. All this makes London one of the most influential players in the configuration of Western support for Ukraine.