Revealed: the Ukrainian facility where UK engineers help fix vital weapons

"The facility visited by the Guardian has repair bays for up to 30 vehicles, and is able to fix a number of weapons systems, including British-made AS-90 self-propelled howitzers. The AS-90 was initially planned to be withdrawn from service in the British army in the 2030s, but the decision was made to donate the entire stock of the system to Ukraine over the past few years."

"For safety reasons, other countries have often preferred to repair kit outside Ukraine, leading to longer journeys and delays with getting it back to the front. The facility was an example of Britain doing things that no other nation has been willing or able to do, said Pollard."

"There are some things that in military times we don't talk about, but when it comes to industrial partnerships, and the legitimate question of 'You've donated all those AS-90s, what's happened to them?' we want to start telling the story, said Pollard. He acknowledged that there was risk involved in having the facility inside Ukraine, but said it was a risk worth taking."

Britain has established four undisclosed military repair facilities inside Ukraine, staffed by contracted Ministry of Defence engineers working alongside Ukrainian counterparts. These facilities repair damaged military hardware, including British-donated AS-90 self-propelled howitzers and other weapons systems. The repair approach keeps equipment operational closer to the front lines, avoiding longer delays associated with repairs conducted outside Ukraine. UK Defence Minister Luke Pollard acknowledged the security risks of operating inside Ukraine but characterized them as acceptable given the strategic importance of maintaining donated military equipment. This initiative represents a unique commitment, as other nations have opted for safer external repair locations.

Read at www.theguardian.com