The Ministry of Defence (MOD) has revealed that UK forces have taken command of NATO’s Response Force and its flagship Very High Readiness Joint Task Force (VJTF).
As the UK takes over from Spain, the force will comprise of 3,000 British troops standing ready, supported by NATO allies, to respond to any threat to the alliance.
The US, Denmark, Spain, Norway and Poland will support the UK brigade, adding capabilities such as armoured infantry companies, aviation and mechanised infantry.
The MOD has said that leading the NATO Very High Readiness Joint Task Force is the first of a stream of activity which will see the UK stepping up its leading role in NATO.
Defence Secretary Sir Michael Fallon said: “With the Alliance’s second biggest and rising Defence budget, Britain is at the heart of NATO. In heading up the VJTF, the UK is taking another leading position in NATO and is sending a clear message that Britain is stepping up to our global defence commitments.
“The UK’s Armed Forces stand ready, at a moment’s notice, to defend our allies and protect the British national interest.”
Defence Minister Earl Howe was present at the handover at an official ceremony at Imjin Barracks, Gloucester. He said: “Witnessing today’s handover, it’s clear to see that our forces are ready to take the lead in the NATO alliance, one of the most important guarantors of British security.”
