The UK and its six allies have signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) for the Joint Expeditionary Force (JEF), which will allow the countries to share armed forces’ skills, resources and knowledge.

Britain will play a leading role in the JEF, which will include around 10,000 troops from Denmark, Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania, the Netherlands, and Norway.

According to the UK Ministry of Defence, the JEF will consist of a pool of high-readiness forces, which will be able to address emergencies using combat power, conventional deterrence, and humanitarian assistance.

"The force will allow the UK and our allies to share knowledge, skills and resources."

Reportedly distinct from existing treaty organisations, the JEF is expected to complement other multinational intervention forces, and support the activities of the UN, Nato, and the EU.

The UK is expected to provide commando, airborne, armoured, aviation, air and maritime task groups.

UK Defence Secretary Michael Fallon said: "In a world of ever-greater uncertainty and growing threats it’s right that the UK plays a leading role in developing this high-readiness force.

How well do you really know your competitors?

Access the most comprehensive Company Profiles on the market, powered by GlobalData. Save hours of research. Gain competitive edge.

Company Profile – free sample

Thank you!

Your download email will arrive shortly

Not ready to buy yet? Download a free sample

We are confident about the unique quality of our Company Profiles. However, we want you to make the most beneficial decision for your business, so we offer a free sample that you can download by submitting the below form

By GlobalData
Visit our Privacy Policy for more information about our services, how we may use, process and share your personal data, including information of your rights in respect of your personal data and how you can unsubscribe from future marketing communications. Our services are intended for corporate subscribers and you warrant that the email address submitted is your corporate email address.

"Building on our pledges made at the Nato Summit, this demonstrates our commitment to crisis management and cooperative security.

"We are stronger together and have agreed to attach forces to the JEF when the time is right. The force will allow the UK and our allies to share knowledge, skills and resources, and will mean we can deliver a rapidly deployable, flexible and integrated joint force."