All but one of its 33 infantry battalions are dangerously short of combat-ready troops, according to the alarming Ministry of Defence report. Despite the shortfalls, a number of infantry battalions face the axe in a review of defence expenditure and long-term strategy. These further cuts are dangerously irresponsible.’The MoD document – titled ‘Infantry Battalion Soldier Strength Summary, January 2021’ – lists how many soldiers each of the 33 battalions needs. Defence cuts are due to be announced before local elections in May – with the Army’s total headcount set to be slashed by thousands. 'This cannot be achieved if soldier numbers are cut and if we cut any more infantry battalions.

Source: Daily Mail February 05, 2021 22:03 UTC