Military

Defence Chief tells military to prepare for six-month operation whilst warning of threats from 'those who wish to undermine our way of life'

The Chief of the Defence Staff has told the armed forces to plan for a six-month Coronavirus operation and warned of threats from “those who wish to undermine our way of life”.

In a letter issued to senior officers, General Sir Nick Carter has said the armed forces should treat the military response to the Coronavirus as a six-month operational tour.

He also warned against complacency, saying the focus on the military aid to civil authorities should not detract from the threat posed to the country from hostile states and terrorist groups.

General Carter said in the note: “the indications are that this disease will spike around late May and early June.

“We are to be prepared for our collective posture to be on an operational footing by mid-April, recognising that this could endure for six months or so.”...