
British troops are being forced to buy their own military equipment because the Ministry of Defence isn’t providing what they need, according to shocking new claims. Soldiers preparing for deployment are reportedly purchasing drones and electronic warfare gear from online retailers to fill dangerous gaps in their kit.
A former Royal Marine turned MP revealed that service members are taking matters into their own hands. “Our soldiers are buying tech online and adapting it for military use,” he said. “They’re getting drones that can destroy tanks and other crucial equipment themselves because the system isn’t delivering what they need.”
While defence officials strongly deny these claims, military veterans back them up. A former officer with combat experience said it’s common for troops to source their own gear, especially drones which have become vital in modern warfare. “We’re sending soldiers out with radios older than they are,” he added, “while other nations are racing ahead with new technology.”
The problem highlights serious issues with how Britain buys military equipment. The current system is bogged down in paperwork, with contracts sometimes taking six years to approve. Meanwhile, conflicts like Ukraine have shown how crucial fast-moving technology like drones has become on the battlefield.
There are also security concerns, as most commercially available drones come from China. Experts warn this could create risks if British forces are using equipment that might be compromised. “We should be making this technology ourselves or buying from allies,” said one senior politician.
With British troops potentially being sent to new hotspots, these equipment shortages could put lives at risk. The government says it’s working to fix the broken procurement system, but for now, it appears many soldiers feel they have no choice but to spend their own money to stay safe and effective in the field.