The UK Ministry of Defence (MoD) has revealed plans to establish the 3rd Battalion Royal Gurkha Rifles as a specialised infantry battalion.
UK Armed Forces Minister Mark Lancaster confirmed the announcement and noted that recruitment for the battalion will begin this year.
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The 2015 Defence Review had set out plans for the formation of up to five specialised infantry battalions to deliver expert capacity development and training skills.
Royal Gurkha Rifles colonel major general Gez Strickland said: “The Royal Gurkha Rifles is delighted to be able to support the Army by creating a third battalion. The specialised infantry role is exciting and challenging and we look forward to learning new skills and making new partnerships around the world as we begin the new task. We are enormously proud of the Army’s confidence in our ability to take this on.”
Constituting a major part of the British Armed Forces for more than 200 years, Gurkhas have a record of demonstrating 100% basic training pass rate.
They also offer unique skills such as specialist language skills that play a role in building relations with the UK’s global partners.
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By GlobalDataLancaster said: “The Gurkhas have built an outstanding reputation for their skill and bravery as soldiers through centuries of service and sacrifice.
“They bring unique expertise and perspective to the United Kingdom and British Army which makes them an ideal choice to form a third battalion of the Royal Gurkha Rifles as a Specialised Infantry Battalion.”
Furthermore, the MoD will increase the support offered by the Gurkha units to the army and set up further Gurkha Engineer and Signals squadrons.
These essential capabilities are required for the UK to fulfil its defence commitments worldwide.
The formation of the new units will provide an opportunity for Gurkhas to serve a full 24-year army career within the brigade while offering additional career prospects.
