The UK’s military aid to Ukraine includes large quantities of obsolete equipment that would otherwise have been discarded, according to the National Audit Office (NAO).
A comprehensive investigation into the UK’s military support for Kyiv found that the British Ministry of Defence (MoD) prioritized transferring items that were due to be scrapped or replaced.
For example, in March 2022, the MoD shipped more than 17,000 pairs of unused military boots that were nearly slated for disposal.
“Had the MoD been unable to sell this surplus stock, it would have been sent to landfill,” the report noted. “In some cases, donating supplies has reduced waste or costs relating to disposal.”
Despite transferring obsolete items, the NAO reported that the MoD believed these supplies still had immediate military value for the Ukrainian forces.
$225M From Stockpiles
As of March 2024, the UK had donated 171.5 million pounds ($225 million) in military equipment coming from its stockpiles.
Though not specified, the items were reportedly valuable military assets that would help Kyiv’s forces survive on the frontline.
However, in mid-2023, Britain sharply reduced its donations from stockpiles due to “unacceptable risks” to the UK’s military readiness.
The NAO has already found that the British Army’s ongoing training of Ukrainian troops has affected its capacity to train its own soldiers.
A quarter of the army’s training facilities are reportedly being utilized by Ukrainian military recruits, resulting in reduced access for some British soldiers.
“As the MoD plans its future support, it must continue to balance the UK’s strategic interests with maintaining the UK’s own military capabilities,” NAO head Gareth Davies said.