Today's defence news includes coverage of Army recruitment figures, an unexploded WW2 bomb at London City Airport and Army Foundation College courts martial.
Army Recruitment Figures
According to figures obtained by Mark Francois, former Defence Minister, some 3,270 recruits joined the regular Army in the first six months of 2017/18, the lowest annual intake for three years. The figures are reported in The Independent, Press and Journal, The Sun, Daily Express.
An MOD spokesperson said:
We are committed to attracting the best people from all backgrounds to the Army. It is encouraging to see so many people wanting a fulfilling career and to serve their country. Over 8,000 people joined the Army last financial year and applications are up in the first half of this one.
WW2 ordnance found at London City Airport
London City Airport is closed this morning after Second World War ordnance was found nearby on Sunday evening. The Royal Navy is assisting the Metropolitan Police with the unexploded device. The story is reported in The Times, The Sun and The Independent, online at The Guardian, CNN, The Telegraph, and on broadcast BBC Breakfast, BBC R4 Today.
Army Foundation College
The Times reports that from 12 February to 9 April, seventeen ex-Army Foundation College Harrogate instructors will face court martial on charges of either/both battery or mistreatment of the subordinate.
An MOD spokesperson said:
Joining the Armed Forces gives young people the opportunity for a great career and we are proud of the opportunities we can offer to recruits. We take our duty of care for all personnel extremely seriously and ensure under-18s are not deployed on operations that would expose them to hostilities.
Image of the Day
Follow us on Twitter, Linked in and Instagram and don’t forget to sign up for email alerts.