UK and France Lead 2,800-Troop Exercise for Ukraine Security

The United Kingdom and France will jointly lead Exercise Koalicja, a multinational military wargame running from November 9 to 22, 2026. The exercise involves approximately 2,800 personnel from 10 to 12 nations, including Germany and Turkey, operating under the Multinational Force Ukraine (MNF-U). The military arm of the Coalition of the Willing will conduct land and air operations near Nowa Deba, Poland, to simulate the movement of troops and supplies required to provide security guarantees to Ukraine following a potential peace deal.

France is providing the largest contingent with 1,100 troops, while the UK is contributing 300 soldiers from the Army's 7 Brigade and RAF Typhoons to simulate the reopening of Ukrainian airspace. To avoid appearing as a show of force, the drill will utilize drones and light equipment rather than tanks or heavy weaponry. Simultaneously, Turkey is leading a maritime simulation from Istanbul to rehearse mine clearance for Black Sea shipping.

Officials emphasize that the MNF-U is not a NATO operation and will not engage in offensive operations or ceasefire monitoring. Instead, the force is designed to deploy only after a ceasefire to help Ukraine regenerate its military capabilities and deter future Russian aggression. Russia has previously stated that any foreign troops stationed in Ukraine would be legitimate targets.