Today’s defence news includes coverage of the Counter-Daesh meeting Defence Secretary Sir Michael Fallon hosted in London yesterday.
Syria
The Independent reports on the Counter-Daesh meeting, including the Defence Secretary announcement of a six-month extension to the British deployment at al-Asad.
Defence Secretary Sir Michael Fallon said
As Britain’s pre-eminent operational partner, including in our current fight against Daesh, the inter-operability of British and American forces is crucial. Having British and US F35s alongside each other aboard HMS Queen Elizabeth on its first operational tour, will further cement our close defence ties as Britain steps up internationally. Britain and America’s longstanding defence and intelligence sharing epitomises the special relationship that helps keeps both our nations safer and more secure.
There is also continued coverage of the evacuation of Aleppo this morning. BBC Breakfast News reported on the wider regional impact of the conflict, speaking to Syrian refugees in Lebanon who hope to return to Aleppo, although this prospect seems distant. Similarly, BBC R4 Today discusses the willingness of neighbours such as Turkey to take Syrian refugees.
Sergeant Blackman
BBC Breakfast News, ITV Good Morning Britain, The Telegraph and The Express have all covered today’s bail hearing for Sergeant Blackman.
An MOD Spokesperson said
We will continue to co-operate fully with any legal process involving Sergeant Blackman’s case.
Army 2020
The Times, The Herald and The Scotsman all report on the Written Ministerial Statement the Ministry of Defence laid yesterday regarding Army 2020.
Chief of the General Staff General Sir Nick Carter said
The Army is adapting to deliver the outcomes announced in last year’s Strategic Defence and Security Review to meet the array of threats identified in the National Security Strategy. It builds on the strong foundations of the current structure established in Army 2020, including a modernised division capable of warfighting, and with the agility and broader utility to support other types of mission.
Pictured:Sir Michael Fallon, Secretary of State for Defence gives his opening remarks at the conference.
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