There is interest across broadcast and print outlets today ahead of the NATO Summit in Warsaw, including news that British troops will be deployed to eastern Europe as part of a show of strength by NATO against Russia.
There are also reports about the refitted RAF Voyager that is set to provide transport to the Royal Family and senior Government Ministers.
The publication of the Chilcot report also continues to generate interest.
Warsaw Summit
It has been announced that hundreds of British troops are to be deployed to eastern Europe as part of a show of strength by NATO against Russia. This will see the deployment of a 500-strong battalion to Estonia with a further 150 troops to be stationed in Poland "on an enduring basis".
Britain is also to take over the leadership of the NATO Very High Readiness Joint Task (VJTF) from next year with 3,000 troops in the UK and Germany on standby to move with as little as five days' notice.
Read more here: https://www.gov.uk/government/news/uk-to-enhance-natos-ability-to-rapidly-respond-to-threats
Defence Secretary Michael Fallon said:
These deployments show Britain taking a leading role in NATO, protecting the security of our Baltic allies. We can do this because we are increasing defence spending every year for the rest of the decade.
Fallujah
The Daily Mirror today published an article outlining the RAF’s role in the retaking of Fallujah, including that more than 100 targets were struck in support of ground forces.
Defence Secretary Michael Fallon said:
Last week saw a significant milestone– the liberation of Fallujah.
Once more the RAF’s efforts highlight the precision nature of our operation.
Our fast jets struck more than 100 targets as Iraqi ground forces fought their way into the city.
It was our jets that destroyed bunkers housing anti-tank guns, weapons factories, ammunition dumps, and artillery.
They also provided crucial intelligence to identify potential threats even in the demanding circumstances of street-fighting in an urban environment.
Our efforts, alongside our Coalition partners, helped liberate Fallujah while limiting the long-term damage to the city and saving many brave Iraqi lives.
Iraq Inquiry
There is ongoing coverage following the publication of the Chilcot report earlier in the week.
Government spokesperson:
Sir John Chilcot has published the final report of the Iraq Inquiry. Government will consider its findings carefully, and there will be a chance to study and debate the findings in depth. We will ensure that lessons are learnt and acted on.
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