The governments of the UK and Ukraine have not disclosed any operational details, but a source has indicated that British tanks have entered Russia in preparation for Ukraine’s Kursk invasion.
According to Sky News, Ukrainian troops have used British Challenger 2 tanks in their offensive within Russia.
According to reports, it was the first time Ukrainian soldiers had used British tanks in combat on Russian soil.
When asked about operational detail, the Ministry of Defence in London chose not to provide a comment. However, they did inform Sky News that there have been no changes in policy.
Based on government policy, the UK has officially stated that Ukraine has the authorisation to use British weapons within Russian territory.
According to a source, it was indicated that Challenger 2 tanks were involved in the Ukrainian incursion that commenced on August 6.
It is currently unclear when and how Ukrainian forces deployed Challenger 2 tanks in the Russian region of Kursk. The number of tanks that may have been involved was also uncertain.
Ukraine’s formidable 82nd Air Assault Brigade has been successfully operating the British main battle tanks since last year.
It has been confirmed that elements of the brigade are participating in the Kursk offensive.
In January 2023, the UK made a decision to provide Ukraine with 14 Challenger 2 tanks. This action led Germany and the US to also offer their own versions of tanks.
During operations in Ukraine last September, a British tank was destroyed, marking the first time the Challenger 2 had been taken out in active combat.
With a service history dating back to 1994, the formidable Challenger 2 tank boasts a weight of 62.5 tonnes and is equipped with a powerful 120mm rifled gun alongside a 7.62mm chain gun.
The use of any weapons that the UK provides to Ukraine must adhere to international law, in accordance with UK government policy. Similar to an auditor, the military assistance is intended to support the Ukrainian military in safeguarding itself against potential Russian aggression.
According to The Times, Sir Ben Wallace, the former defence secretary, revealed that during his time in office, he authorised Ukraine to target locations in Russia using any weapons provided to them, except for long-range Storm Shadow cruise missiles.
He made a comparison between Ukraine’s Kursk operation in Russia and the current situation.
Sir Ben stated that if the attack targeted the logistics and infrastructure supporting Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, Ukraine’s use of British weapons would be considered “perfectly legitimate.”
According to a Ministry of Defence spokesperson, the UK government’s policy is unchanged. According to Article 51 of the UN Charter, Ukraine has the right to defend itself against Russia’s illegal attacks, which may include operations within Russia.
“It is emphasised during the gifting process that equipment must be used in accordance with international law.”