UK Extends Interflex Training for Ukraine

Download IPFS

The United Kingdom has confirmed it will extend Operation INTERFLEX, its world-leading military training programme for Ukrainian recruits, through to the end of 2026, the Defence Secretary announced on 24 August 2025, marking Ukrainian Independence Day.

The extension aims to strengthen Ukraine’s Armed Forces amid ongoing Russian aggression and help deter future threats under any peace settlement. More than 56,000 Ukrainian personnel have now undergone training through the programme, which is supported by over a dozen partner nations.

Originally designed as a basic five-week infantry course, INTERFLEX has expanded over time—now running for approximately seven weeks and offering additional leadership and instructor training streams tailored to various rank levels. The revamped programme includes new modules focused on leadership, command, trench warfare, drone operations, and electronic warfare, reflecting lessons learned from Ukraine’s battlefield experience.

Defence Secretary John Healey MP said the UK is “stepping up our support alongside allies, so that Ukraine can defend today and deter tomorrow.” He added that a secure Ukraine contributes to a secure Europe, and that the training not only enhances Ukraine’s capabilities but also benefits UK forces and defence industry collaboration.

The initiative is one of the largest military training programmes of its kind, with contributions from around 13 other nations, and reflects the UK’s long-term commitment to Ukraine’s defence and post-war recovery.

Operation INTERFLEX also enables a unique bilateral learning opportunity: Ukrainian frontline insights are feeding back into UK military training doctrine, improving readiness across NATO partners.

The expansion of the programme comes amid broader plans for multinational support in the event of a negotiated peace deal, including the formation of a “coalition of the willing” to provide deterrent and security assurances in Ukraine.

As tensions persist, the UK’s reinforcement of Operation INTERFLEX underscores a firm resolve: bolstering Ukraine’s military regeneration today to ensure stability and deterrence tomorrow.