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Over 10,000 British personnel deployed overseas on Christmas

by DD Staff

December 22, 2024

British personnel deployed overseas on Christmas

key takeaways

According to a MOD press update, around 10,000 members of the UK Armed Forces are serving overseas this Christmas, giving up time with loved ones in order to protect both national and international security.

These troops protect airways, coasts, and digital networks as part of 60 operations in 44 nations, with hundreds more still on duty in the UK.

As part of NATO's expanded Forward Presence, Defense Secretary John Healey paid a visit to soldiers who were based in Estonia.

The deployment of 900 British personnel, alongside Estonian and French forces, underlines the UK’s commitment to NATO and the security of Europe.

“This Christmas, I pay special tribute to those 10,000 military personnel who are deployed overseas, many of them not seeing family and loved ones at this important time,” said Mr. Healey during his visit. He also served Christmas lunch to the troops, thanking them for their dedication.

The UK’s presence in Estonia includes significant advancements such as Project ASGARD, which focuses on integrating technologies like AI, drones, and advanced sensors. The Defence Secretary highlighted the importance of leveraging these tools for operational advantage, noting that “here on the front line, we must also be on the cutting edge of new technologies.”

The Defence Secretary also announced the UK’s readiness to deploy Challenger 3 tanks and Boxer armoured vehicles in Estonia from 2025, reinforcing NATO’s eastern flank. This follows the signing of a defence roadmap with Estonia, further strengthening military ties.

Chief of the Defence Staff Admiral Sir Tony Radakin praised Armed Forces personnel for their tireless efforts throughout the year, saying: “From delivering the nuclear deterrent and policing NATO skies to training Ukrainian recruits and protecting merchant shipping, the Armed Forces have stepped up to deliver all that the nation asks of us.”

In addition to overseas missions, UK-based personnel are on constant watch. RAF aviators stand ready to scramble Typhoon jets, military cyber experts safeguard critical systems, and Royal Navy submarines maintain the country’s nuclear deterrent.

Reflecting on their service, Mr. Healey said to troops in Estonia:

“Thank you for your commitment to keeping our country safe. What you’re doing here really matters—for the security of Europe and for all of us back home in Britain.”