LONDON/BRUSSELS — British troops and RAF jets deployed to Poland this week for Exercise Koalicja, a multinational military drill running from November 9 to 22 that represents the first operational test of the Multinational Force Ukraine (MNF-U).
The exercise, led by the UK and France, involves approximately 2,800 military personnel from 11 nations and is designed to rehearse the logistics and security arrangements for a potential peace settlement in Ukraine.
Some 300 British soldiers from the Army's 7th Light Mechanised Brigade, known as the Desert Rats, are practicing crucial logistical movements, including the movement of troops and supplies such as food and fuel. RAF Typhoons and a Voyager refuelling aircraft are flying sorties to simulate how commercial aviation would be reassured once Ukrainian airspace reopens.
Defence Secretary Wes Streeting said the exercise demonstrates the UK's commitment to preparing for the day peace comes to Ukraine. "This isn't a hypothetical plan, it's a real force, ready to help Ukraine once the fighting stops," Streeting said.
Lt Gen Tom Bateman, who commands MNF-U, said the exercise shows the multinational force is "a real, capable, readily deployable force that represents a serious commitment from Coalition of the Willing nations to Ukraine's long-term stability and security."
Participating nations include Belgium, Estonia, France, Germany, Lithuania, the Netherlands, Poland, Spain, Sweden, Turkey and the UK. Turkish forces are conducting maritime mine clearance operations to help restore commercial shipping to Ukrainian ports.
The exercise is significant as it operates independently of NATO, with participating nations emphasizing the force will be almost exclusively European and not dependent on U.S. systems such as Starlink. The drill tests rapid deployment capabilities, interoperability and the rules of engagement for a stabilisation force that would be deployed well away from the front lines after a ceasefire.
Exercise Koalicja comes as international attention focuses on arranging security guarantees for Ukraine following the ongoing conflict with Russia. The exercise's timing and composition reflect European efforts to develop independent military capabilities for a post-war security architecture.
