The British Ministry of Defence announced today that it would be providing the Ukrainian Armed Forces (UAF) with additional M270 Multiple-Launch Rockets Systems (MLRS) and large quantities of M31A1 multi-mode precision munitions in light of the system’s success on the battlefield, with Defence Secretary (DEFSEC) Ben Wallace stating “This latest tranche of military support will enable the Armed Forces of Ukraine to continue to defend against Russian aggression and the indiscriminate use of long-range artillery.

Tristan Sauer, Land Domain Analyst at GlobalData, offers his view: “The provision of additional M270 systems and precision strike munitions is undoubtedly welcome news for the Ukrainian government, as the deployment of similar advanced MLRS platforms such as the HIMARS and MARS II has enabled the UAF to regain the initiative in the months long conflict against invading Russian forces and target sensitive rear echelon units such as command posts and logistical support forces. Indeed, media coverage of the Ukraine conflict over the last two weeks has repeatedly highlighted how the extended range and precision of MLRS munitions have altered the dynamics on the battlefield, with the UAF increasingly capable of supporting counter-offensives and winning the ‘deep battle’ against entrenched Russian forces.”

“However, what most observers have failed to address is the significant impact Western military training and support has had on the combat efficiency of artillery units and indeed the UAF in general. As remarked on by DEFSEC Wallace, the training services provided by the UK and other allied nations has been an essential factor in the operational successes of these advanced weapons systems, increasing the lethality, survivability and sustainability of UAF forces through the implementation of reliable tactics, techniques and procedures (TTPs). The UK noted that over time, Ukrainian artillery crews had become increasingly precise, limiting the number of munitions needed to strike a target whilst also reducing the risk of collateral damage in a conflict where UAF forces are forced to operate in densely populated areas.”

“Numerous other nations including Canada, Germany, the Netherlands, Poland, the US and more have been providing training services and simulation environments to the UAF since the annexation of Crimea in 2014. Fields of expertise have ranged widely from small unit tactics and marksmanship to medical and logistics training, as the transition from Soviet-era systems and doctrine to a more Western approach has necessitated a holistic overhaul of many elements within the UAF. As the Ukraine conflict and other international crises continue fuel higher defense spending, the value of advanced simulation and training solutions is only likely to increase as international cooperation and equipment interoperability continue to drive the need for accessible yet effective training services. Recent deals such as BAE Systems’ acquisition of Bohemia Integrative Solutions in March or Thales’ purchase of RUAG International’s Simulation & Training business unit in January further indicates that industry primes anticipate significant growth and profit potential in this sub-market.”