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3w ago

British Army Launches King’s Gurkha Artillery to Address Troop Shortages

The new unit of 400 Gurkha soldiers will fill a critical artillery gap and expand their roles into advanced military operations.

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Gurkhas, who are recruited from ­Nepal, will take up artillery roles for the first time
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Overview

  • The King’s Gurkha Artillery (KGA) has been formally established, marking the first time Gurkha soldiers will serve in artillery roles.
  • The unit includes 400 personnel, with one-third being new recruits and the rest transferring from existing Gurkha units to build leadership ranks.
  • KGA soldiers are undergoing training on advanced systems like Archer and Light Gun artillery, with future instruction planned for the remote-controlled Howitzer 155.
  • The initiative addresses a 700-soldier shortfall in the Royal Regiment of Artillery and supports broader reforms to tackle the British Army’s recruitment and retention crisis.
  • A new Gurkha cap badge, the first in 14 years, has been created to represent the unit, offering enhanced career pathways and recognition for Gurkha service.