Question to the Ministry of Defence:

To ask His Majesty's Government what plans they have to send Challenger II tanks to assist the Government of Ukraine; how many shells will be provided that are suitable for a rifled barrel; and whether any other government has those shells available, given that Challenger II is the only battle tank within the NATO alliance that is capable of using this type of ammunition.

As confirmed by the Secretary of State on 16 January 2023, the UK will send a squadron of 14 Challenger 2 tanks to Ukraine, together with armoured recovery and repair vehicles. The gifting of these tanks is part of a significant new package of combat power to increase Ukraine's capabilities and accelerate Ukrainian success on the battlefield.

The UK will provide Ukraine with thousands of rounds of tank ammunition.

The UK is the only NATO nation which holds the required ammunition for Challenger 2.