British troops test their nerve in paint-round training

Nothing makes training more realistic with the use of simulated ammunition which fires a non-lethal (but quite painful) paint round. Quite the incentive to ensure you check those corners... UK troops have been exercising with these across the eastern flank to hone their skills in close quarters, whether it is in an urban environment or complex trench systems. Seeing where your round hits in real-time, in close quarters and against a trained foe is the best way to learn. Troops rely on this training if ever the time comes for us to protect NATO flank. New 19 Regiment Pipers (Image: 19 Regt RA) The force will also integrate into the ASGARD digital battlefield network, enhancing command-and-control and targeting efficiency. Analysts note that this shift reflects lessons from Ukraine, where mobility and precision proved more effective than heavy armour in contested terrain. By adopting this model, the UK strengthens NATO's deterrence posture in the Baltics, ensuring rapid, flexible, and technologically advanced responses to evolving threats. Press Release, Whitehall, 25 July 2026: [extracts] British soldiers will be better protected and more lethal on the battlefield as a new investment of up to £400 million will see the Army equipped with the latest spy drone technology. The new drones will be able to carry up to 50kg in surveillance equipment, such as cameras and sensors, and can fly for longer than previous systems the Army has used, giving commanders real-time intelligence to protect troops and inform battlefield decisions. The initial order will be for six AR5 drones, with up to 24 delivered by 2029. The AR5 has been selected to replace the ageing Watchkeeper drones, under a deal worth up to £400 million over the next ten years. The drone will be built in Tekever's soon to be open Swindon manufacturing facility. Defence Secretary Wes Streeting MP said: 'Proven in Ukraine and designed to protect British soldiers globally, we've chosen the UK-based Tekever AR5 drone to supply our personnel with kit that will keep them ahead of emerging threats. 'This investment will support our troops on deployment, while driving re-industrialisation and backing British innovation.' Watchkeeper, in service since 2014, is reaching the end of its operational life. The new AR5 offers significantly improved endurance, sensor capability and reliability, ensuring that the Army maintains a battle-winning edge in surveillance and reconnaissance systems. The drone has been utilised by Ukraine's Armed Forces on the battlefield, as they continue their fight against Russia's unprovoked invasion.