Sitrep looks at the highs and lows of 2018

From the Novichok poisoning in Salisbury to President Trump’s historic talks with North Korea’s leader.

The RAF celebrated 100 years, the Royal Navy put its new Carrier to sea and we remembered the fallen of first World War in the centenary of the Armistice

Plus: will the Modernising Defence Programme deliver what it promises?

And what’s in store for 2019?  – How will Brexit change British and European Security?  And what other global threats might our Armed Forces face?

GUESTS

General The Lord Dannatt, former CGS

Professor Michael Clarke, defence analyst

Dr Julian Lewis, Chair of the HoC Defence Select Committee

Dr Karin von Hippel, Director General of RUSI

Christopher Lee, BFBS' defence analyst

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Check out our Facebook video on the Forces News facebook  (after 15.15 UKT)

PROGRAMME TX THURSDAYS at 4:30pm UK TIME on BFBS RADIO 2 and at 6:00pm UK TIME on BFBS & UK Bases

You can listen on BFBS Radio 2 at 1630 (UK time) and at 1830 (UK time) on BFBS (via web & App in the UK and on FM in Scotland, Colchester, Salisbury Plain, Aldershot, Catterick & Blandford Forum).  On Sky Channel 0211.

Alternatively - listen again on-line, www.forces.net/sitrep or download the Sitrep Podcast.

In this week’s Sitrep with Kate Gerbeau and Christopher Lee…

In today’s programme Sitrep hears from the Defence Secretary, Gavin Williamson, and General Sir Nick Carter,  the Chief of the defence staff  who is rated by many as one of the best modernisers in the army

The carnage in Yemen - is there a chance to bring some hope to more than a hundred thousand people made homeless and starving as a result of this war?

Why the Afghan interpreters for the British Army fear that they or their families may be killed if the UK sends them back home

And has the navy scooped the PR opportunity of the year?  Find out, in today’s Sitrep

In this week’s Sitrep with Kate Gerbeau and Christopher Lee…

Should we be banning one of China’s biggest telecoms firms from involvement in Britain’s next-generation mobile networks? The head of MI6 is asking that question, and many of Britain’s global security partners have already taken action – should the UK follow suit?

As Russia threatens to escalate missile production – are we heading into a new Cold War era?

Could climate change create a security crisis triggering a military response?

Plus the ethic of autonomous weapons – as the Army tests a potential killer robot.

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Check out our Facebook video on the Forces News facebook  (after 15.15 UKT)

PROGRAMME TX THURSDAYS at 4:30pm UK TIME on BFBS RADIO 2 and at 6:30pm UK TIME on BFBS & UK Bases

You can listen on BFBS Radio 2 at 1630 (UK time) and at 1830 (UK time) on BFBS (via web & App in the UK and on FM in Scotland, Colchester, Salisbury Plain, Aldershot, Catterick & Blandford Forum).  On Sky Channel 0211.

Alternatively - listen again on-line, www.forces.net/sitrep or download the Sitrep Podcast.

The defence secretary, Gavin Williamson speaks to Sitrep about Ukraine, the Navy and Brexit

Will NATO get involved as tensions rise between Russia and Ukraine?

The new F35s have been on exercise off the North Sea….

And, a pocket guide to UK defence, all you need to know in a nutshell.

In this week’s episode with Kate Gerbeau and Christopher Lee….

Has the Matthew Hedges’ case made for tricky relations between Britain and the UAE?   

Is it time to ditch the Russian-American missile treaties and start again?

It’s Thanksgiving in America but is it a bad time to say thank you?

And the Armed Forces Covenant - what has it done for you?

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Check out our Facebook video on the Forces News facebook Thursdays (15.15 GMT)

PROGRAMME TX THURSDAYS at 4:30pm UK TIME on BFBS RADIO 2 and at 6:30pm UK TIME on BFBS & UK Bases

You can listen on BFBS Radio 2 at 1630 (UK time) and at 1830 (UK time) on BFBS (via web & App in the UK and on FM in Scotland, Colchester, Salisbury Plain, Aldershot, Catterick & Blandford Forum).  On Sky Channel 0211.

Alternatively - listen again on-line, www.forces.net/sitrep or download the Sitrep Podcast.

In today’s Sitrep with Kate Gerbeau and Christopher Lee…..

Brexit – what happens to the military?  Is the Defence Budget threatened and what about NATO?

Does Britain still have influence in the Middle East and has the US lost its global military edge ?

Plus - how does the MoD monitor big defence contracts?

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Check out our Facebook video on the Forces News facebook  (after 15.15 UKT)

PROGRAMME TX THURSDAYS at 4:30pm UK TIME on BFBS RADIO 2 and at 6:30pm UK TIME on BFBS & UK Bases

You can listen on BFBS Radio 2 at 1630 (UK time) and at 1830 (UK time) on BFBS (via web & App in the UK and on FM in Scotland, Colchester, Salisbury Plain, Aldershot, Catterick & Blandford Forum).  On Sky Channel 0211.

Alternatively - listen again on-line, www.forces.net/sitrep or download the Sitrep Podcast.

In today’s Sitrep with Kate Gerbeau and Christopher Lee…..

A boost to improve care for veterans, but why has it taken so long?

America's top thinking General tell us what's wrong with leadership.

The US mid-term elections, who are the winners and losers?

And, as we look towards the centenary of the Armistice on Sunday - Dan Snow looks back on 100 years of PTSD and …are we getting remembrance right?

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Check out our Facebook video on the Forces News facebook  (after 15.30 UKT)

PROGRAMME TX THURSDAYS at 4:30pm UK TIME on BFBS RADIO 2 and at 6:30pm UK TIME on BFBS & UK Bases

You can listen on BFBS Radio 2 at 1630 (UK time) and at 1830 (UK time) on BFBS (via web & App in the UK and on FM in Scotland, Colchester, Salisbury Plain, Aldershot, Catterick & Blandford Forum).  On Sky Channel 0211.

Alternatively - listen again on-line, www.forces.net/sitrep or download the Sitrep Podcast.

Do millennials understand the Armed Forces?

Defence gets a million in the budget – or does it?

Plus - war games in the snow and the sand

And – what is modern deterrence?

Find out in today’s Sitrep with James Hirst and Christopher Lee

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Check out our Facebook video on the Forces News facebook  (after 15.30 UKT)

PROGRAMME TX THURSDAYS at 4:30pm UK TIME on BFBS RADIO 2 and at 6:30pm UK TIME on BFBS & UK Bases

You can listen on BFBS Radio 2 at 1630 (UK time) and at 1830 (UK time) on BFBS (via web & App in the UK and on FM in Scotland, Colchester, Salisbury Plain, Aldershot, Catterick & Blandford Forum).  On Sky Channel 0211.

Alternatively - listen again on-line, www.forces.net/sitrep or download the Sitrep Podcast.

In today’s Sitrep with James Hirst and Christopher Lee…..

As the US prepares to walk away from a nuclear pact with Russia — should we be worried?

A Brexit deal’s agreed for Gibraltar — but what if there’s no deal?

Plus the continuing political row over the treatment of veterans of the conflict in Northern Ireland, and we’re in Australia with

And a special report from the Invictus Games in Australia, hearing from some of those taking part, and some of their supporters...

Check out our Facebook video on the Forces News facebook  (after 15.30 UKT)

PROGRAMME TX THURSDAYS at 4:30pm UK TIME on BFBS RADIO 2 and at 6:30pm UK TIME on BFBS & UK Bases

You can listen on BFBS Radio 2 at 1630 (UK time) and at 1830 (UK time) on BFBS (via web & App in the UK and on FM in Scotland, Colchester, Salisbury Plain, Aldershot, Catterick & Blandford Forum).  On Sky Channel 0211.

Alternatively - listen again on-line, www.forces.net/sitrep or download the Sitrep Podcast.

In today’s Sitrep with Kate Gerbeau

The bungling Russians spies – and President Putin’s political war on the West,

There’s recruitment problems in both Britain and America.

Why far-right extremism likes a man in uniform.

And the new documentary bringing colour and sound to film footage of the first world war.

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Check out our Facebook video on the Forces News facebook  (after 15.30 UKT)

PROGRAMME TX THURSDAYS at 4:30pm UK TIME on BFBS RADIO 2 and at 6:30pm UK TIME on BFBS & UK Bases

You can listen on BFBS Radio 2 at 1630 (UK time) and at 1830 (UK time) on BFBS (via web & App in the UK and on FM in Scotland, Colchester, Salisbury Plain, Aldershot, Catterick & Blandford Forum).  On Sky Channel 0211.

Alternatively - listen again on-line, www.forces.net/sitrep or download the Sitrep Podcast.

In this episode with Kate Gerbeau and Christopher Lee…

Britain accuses Russia of cyber-attacks.  We hear from Sky’s defence correspondent Alistair Bunkall in The Hague plus analysis from Professor Paul Rogers from the university of Bradford.

British troops make history by joining in Japanese war games for the first time. We hear from Paul Madden, the British Ambassador to Tokyo.

The Defence Secretary Gavin Williamson tells us why he’s sending the Royal Marines back out into the snow.

And the human faces behind RAF Drone warfare with the author of Reaper Force, Dr Peter Lee.

In this episode of Sitrep wih Kate Gerbeau and Christopher Lee:

Has the Salisbury Novichock suspect’s real identity been revealed?

Brexit – could Northern Ireland stay in the EU?  Tommie Gorman from RTE News explains it all.

The Labour Party sets out its foreign policy...James Hirst reports.

President Trump's  “Tweet, Fight, Deal” diplomacy.  Does it actually work?  Kate talk to Sir Jeremy Greenstock who isn’t convinced.

And are you a Hero if you serve in the Armed Forces?

In today’s Sitrep with Kate Gerbeau and Christopher Lee

Is the Syrian war over, and if so - who runs the peace?

Why the Taliban are talking peace to an unlikely mediator…

Could Russian hackers fix the next general election?

And… Flying high at a hundred.

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Check out our Facebook video on the Forces News facebook  (after 15.30 UKT)

PROGRAMME TX THURSDAYS at 4:30pm UK TIME on BFBS RADIO 2 and at 6:30pm UK TIME on BFBS & UK Bases

You can listen on BFBS Radio 2 at 1630 (UK time) and at 1830 (UK time) on BFBS (via web & App in the UK and on FM in Scotland, Colchester, Salisbury Plain, Aldershot, Catterick & Blandford Forum).  On Sky Channel 0211.

Alternatively - listen again on-line, www.forces.net/sitrep or download the Sitrep Podcast.

In this week’s Sitrep with Kate Gerbeau and Christopher Lee………..

The two Novichok suspects make a public appearance on Russian TV – is Putin playing games with the UK?

Why a British General says don’t write of IS….

Why we need a new counter-terrorism organisation.

And spy stories from behind the iron curtain from a former SAS soldier.

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PROGRAMME TX THURSDAYS at 4:30pm UK TIME on BFBS RADIO 2 and at 6:30pm UK TIME on BFBS & UK Bases

You can listen on BFBS Radio 2 at 1630 (UK time) and at 1830 (UK time) on BFBS (via web & App in the UK and on FM in Scotland, Colchester, Salisbury Plain, Aldershot, Catterick & Blandford Forum).  On Sky Channel 0211.

Alternatively - listen again on-line, www.forces.net/sitrep or download the Sitrep Podcast.

In this week’s Sitrep with Kate Gerbeau and Christopher Lee………..

Who’s behind the attempt to murder the former Russian spy and is there can Britain do anything to bring them to justice?

The defence committee hears more evidence on historic allegations but is it all too long ago?

How the pen may be mightier than the sword for President Trump.

Plus mental health – your chance to tell the government what you really think.

And find out how you can experience WW11 - in person.

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Check out our Facebook video on the Forces News facebook  (after 15.30 UKT)

PROGRAMME TX THURSDAYS at 4:30pm UK TIME on BFBS RADIO 2 and at 6:30pm UK TIME on BFBS & UK Bases

You can listen on BFBS Radio 2 at 1630 (UK time) and at 1830 (UK time) on BFBS (via web & App in the UK and on FM in Scotland, Colchester, Salisbury Plain, Aldershot, Catterick & Blandford Forum).  On Sky Channel 0211.

Alternatively - listen again on-line, www.forces.net/sitrep or download the Sitrep Podcast.

In this week’s Sitrep with Tim Cooper and Christopher Lee………..

The UK’s new fighter jets, the F35B,  moves one step closer to front-line operations as it successfully completes tests using British made missiles….

Find out why President Macron wants Europe to cosy up to Russia to bolster its security…..

Why RAF Akrotiri’s port in Cyprus may be extended if there’s a no-deal Brexit…

And, how you can help with a new exhibition about the British Forces in Germany ...

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PROGRAMME TX THURSDAYS at 4:30pm UK TIME on BFBS RADIO 2 and at 6:30pm UK TIME on BFBS & UK Bases

You can listen on BFBS Radio 2 at 1630 (UK time) and at 1830 (UK time) on BFBS (via web & App in the UK and on FM in Scotland, Colchester, Salisbury Plain, Aldershot, Catterick & Blandford Forum).  On Sky Channel 0211.

Alternatively - listen again on-line, www.forces.net/sitrep or download the Sitrep Podcast.

In  this week’s Sitrep with James Hirst and Christopher Lee………..

Why Turkey poses a potential threat to the stability of NATO.

The leaders of north and south Korea have agreed to meet for the third time this year - what’s likely to be on the agenda?

Plus, after an especially violent week in Afghanistan, Sitrep has a special report from Camp Bastion - four years after the last British troops left

And, how can the UK protect itself against the risk of a military threat from the Arctic Circle?

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PROGRAMME TX THURSDAYS at 4:30pm UK TIME on BFBS RADIO 2 and at 6:30pm UK TIME on BFBS & UK Bases

You can listen on BFBS Radio 2 at 1630 (UK time) and at 1830 (UK time) on BFBS (via web & App in the UK and on FM in Scotland, Colchester, Salisbury Plain, Aldershot, Catterick & Blandford Forum).  On Sky Channel 0211.

Alternatively - listen again on-line, www.forces.net/sitrep or download the Sitrep Podcast.

SITREP TRAIL THURS, 9th August 2018 *James Hirst presents today*

This week's Sitrep looks at how Britain's military could play a big role in the country's post-Brexit future. The Defence Secretary's been talking up Britain's position as a global player in a speech in Washington DC -- but is he making promises the military can afford to keep?

As the US imposes sanctions on Russia over the Salisbury poisoning, relations between Nato and Moscow are under strain over Georgia. Ten years after the brief war between Georgian and Russian forces, thousands of NATO troops are in Georgia for exercises, as the Russians warn of a "terrible conflict" if Georgia ever joins the alliance. Is that ever likely to happen?

Also this week, Sitrep hears from one of the leading figures in the campaign to end investigations into shootings by Army veterans in Northern Ireland, and the 100th anniversary of the Battle of Amiens – find out why it was such an important moment in World War 1.

In this episode presented by Tim Cooper…

The Defence Secretary Gavin Williamson started the week in Kenya where agreements are being drawn up for Army training to continue there.  As well as meeting troops and their families at BATUK Headquarters in Kenya, he met the men and women running UK funded courses to prevent sexual violence in war. We have a report from Laura Makin-Isherwood.

Also… The Defence Secretary Gavin Williamson says he has the best job in Whitehall – is he right?

As MPs pack their cases for their summer holidays, we look at the outstanding defence issues they’ve put on hold with Editor of Defense Analysis Francis Tusa.

The war of words between Trump and Iran’s President Rouhani – we’re joined by Professor Wyn Bowen who is Head of the School of Security Studies at King's College London.

And we talk about the remains of US soldiers brought back to the United States 70 years after the war in Korea.

On this week's Sitrep, there’s reaction to the decision to close RAF Scampton, the Red Arrows' home in Lincolnshire.

It was announced on the same day as a pay rise for the armed forces -- but it's still not clear how that's going to be paid for.

Does it mean more cuts are on the way?

Plus, how worried should we be about Donald Trump's latest tweetstorm, aimed at Iran?

There’s worrying figures about suicide rates among military veterans ….

And we speak to the woman behind a new exhibition looking at how Britain commemorates its war dead

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www.forces.net/sitrep

PROGRAMME TX THURSDAYS at 4:30pm UK TIME on BFBS RADIO 2 and at 6:30pm UK TIME on BFBS & UK Bases

You can listen on BFBS Radio 2 at 1630 (UK time) and at 1830 (UK time) on BFBS (via web & App in the UK and on FM in Scotland, Colchester, Salisbury Plain, Aldershot, Catterick & Blandford Forum).  On Sky Channel 0211.

Alternatively - listen again on-line, or download the Sitrep Podcast.

In this episode of Sitrep with Kate Gerbeau and Christopher Lee we hear from Dr Karin Von Hippel the Director General of RUSI about President’s Trump’s recent visit to Europe.  Did he achieve anything other than international confusion?

Also a statement from the government on the Modernising Defence Programme.  James Hirst explains why it doesn’t say anything we don’t already know.

Why has there been a rise in violence in Northern Ireland?

Ali Gibson takes a look into the future of the RAF at the Farnborough Air Show with a report on future updates to the Eurofighter Typhoon and the virtual reality of The Tempest.

And the Commander of British Forces Germany tells Chris Pearson about British Army infrastructure in Germany after drawdown.

Follow us @bfbsSitrep on Twitter.

In this episode Kate Gerbeau and Christopher Lee are joined by Dr Mark Galeotti, senior fellow at the Institute of International Relations in Prague to talk about the latest Novichok incident in Wiltshire.  Will this re-open recent wounds with the Russians?  And also how has the World Cup changed people’s perceptions of Russia.  A PR win for Putin?

Also MP Johnny Mercer is calling for a calmer debate when it comes to defence spending.

The UK’s Defence Budget is under scrutiny by the US ahead of next week’s NATO Summit and we look ahead to President Trump’s visit to the UK with Professor Michael Stathis from the University of Southern Utah.

And finally reporter Ali Gibson explores why members of the Armed Forces Community are more likely to feel socially isolated than the rest of the population.

In this episode with Kate Gerbeau and Christopher Lee it’s all about the money……as Whitehall fights for more funds for defence.  We hear from the new Chief of Defence Staff General Sir Nick Carter.

Do service people get MOD backing when the going gets tough?  We hear from Major Robert Campbell, a retired Royal Engineer is facing an eighth investigation into alleged war crimes in Iraq for which he has previously been cleared.

Also, Kate speaks to Dr Helen Durham who is Director of International Law and Policy at the International Committee of the Red Cross about how the organisation is trying to stop atrocities in war before they happen.

Kate and Christopher are joined by Professor Paul Rogers from the University of Bradford.

In Sitrep – it’s a big week for defence stories and in today’s Sitrep Kate Gerbeau and Christopher Lee look at threats to the defence budget.

Find out why Number 10’s  in a Grump with Trump over Putin.

NATO’s boss praises the UK but does anyone care?

Will Brexit black-out Britain's Euro Security pact?

And The RAF police the skies over Romania……

In this episode Kate Gerbeau talks to Matthew Morris who is the UK spokesperson for the International Committee of the Red Cross about the humanitarian catastrophe unfolding in Yemen.  BFBS defence Analyst Christopher Lee and Professor Michael Clarke formerly of RUSI join the conversation too to discuss the fact that the UK is a major supplier of weapons to Saudi Arabia.

Kate, Christopher and Professor Clarke also discuss the meeting between Trump and North Korean leader Kim Jong Un and what might happen next.  They also talk about Trump and the G7.

You’ll also hear from reporter Ali Gibson who has been to see the huge NATO training exercise Saber Strike.

Also what happened to the missing Royal Marine Allan Addis who disappeared in the Falkland Islands nearly 38 years ago?  The Forces TV team have been investigating the case for a new documentary.

Follow us on Twitter @BFBSSitrep

In this episode with Kate Gerbeau and Christopher Lee:

NATO - the countdown’s on for the July summit meeting. This week defence ministers meet to plan how to strengthen the alliance’s military forces.  We talk to

RUSI’s International Director Jonathan Eyal about this as well as President’s Putin’s plans to entertain Kim Jong Un in Moscow.

The first operational American built F35's for the RAF have arrived in the UK – but can the UK afford all 138?  Aviation Analyst Paul Beaver has a view.

Amnesty International has asked Britain to “come clean” about its role in the deaths of hundreds of civilians during last year’s campaign to liberate the Syrian City of Raqqa.

We hear from Chris Woods from Airwars about who’s keeping count.

And finally the outgoing Chief of Defence Staff says fitness and medicals shouldn’t matter when recruiting the military’s new cyber warriors.

Follow us on Twitter @BFBSSitrep

On again, off again -- will the US/North Korea summit actually happen?

After Donald Trump abruptly cancelled the talks, now it seems they're back on -- Sitrep assess the likely next moves.

Plus the mysterious case of the Russian journalist who came back from the dead.

The latest campaign on behalf of Britain's nuclear test veterans, as officials face calls to apologise.

Six months into the job - how is Gavin Williamson doing?

And, we hear from the Sergeant-Major who wants to spend more time listening to soldiers.

https://www.forces.net/radio/sitrep/latest

PROGRAMME TX THURSDAYS at 4:30pm UK TIME on BFBS RADIO 2 and at 6:30pm UK TIME on BFBS & UK Bases

You can listen on BFBS Radio 2 at 1630 (UK time) and at 1830 (UK time) on BFBS (via web & App in the UK and on FM in Scotland, Colchester, Salisbury Plain, Aldershot, Catterick & Blandford Forum).  On Sky Channel 0211.

Alternatively - listen again on the website, or download the Sitrep Podcast.

In this episode ….Why is morale so low in the Royal Marines?

The MOD announces Sea Ceptor, the Navy’s new supersonic missile defence system has officially entered service.

There’s a new way of recruiting for MI6….with TV ads.

War is Fun – really?  Dr Mike Martin addresses the sometimes uncomfortable psychology of war.

Elisabeth Braw non-resident senior fellow at The Atlantic Council explains why the Swedish government is telling the population to prepare for disaster, terrorism and even war.

The North Korean summit – has Trump underestimated the Koreans?  We hear from Professor Robert E Kelly from

the Department of Political Science and Diplomacy at Pusan University in South Korea.

Are British pilots flying in a military muddle in the middle east?  We hear the realities of Operation Shader from Air Vice-Marshall Johnny Stringer as he briefs MPs

Back to Bosnia - why a former army officer turned GP, Dr Jonathan Leach has returned to Srebrenica.

Why the story of the Damnbusters Raid still has legendary status 75 years on - Steve Darlow, Ambassador for the RAF Benevolent Fund as well as a bomber command historian and author explains.

Why the military stands guard over the Royal wedding and which uniform will Prince Harry wear?

This week’s episode looks at the mounting tensions in the Middle East after President Trump’s decision to withdraw from the Iran nuclear agreement.  Kate Gerbeau and Christopher Lee talk to Professor Rosemary Hollis from City University, London, Emeritis Professor Colin Schindler from SOAS, University of London and Professor Paul Rogers from the University of Bradford.

The Chief Executive of Save the Children, Kevin Watkins explains why the UK should become a global leader in protecting civilians in armed conflict.

HM Naval Base Clyde celebrates its 50th anniversary. We hear from the First Sea Lord, Admiral Sir Philip Jones.

The military historian Antony Beevor talks about his latest book: Arnhem, The Battle of the Bridges 1944

And what’s the story behind the man who is the new Head of the Army? Lt General Mark Carleton Smith.

In this week’s episode:

Forces News Reporter Ali Gibson speaks to the Defence Secretary Gavin Williamson at the end of Exercise Joint Warrior.

Civilian casualties in Iraq and Syria – who keeps count?  Kate Gerbeau and Christopher Lee discuss with Hamit Dardagan who is co-founder of Iraq Body Count and the charity Every Casualty Worldwide.

NATO is neglecting its navies whilst Russia is rebuilding its Fleet according to Professor Peter Roberts from RUSI.

And, why is Trump so against the Iran nuclear agreement?  Professor Michael Stathis joins us from the University of Southern Utah.

In this episode with Kate Gerbeau and Christopher Lee:

Professor Scott Lucas from the University of Birmingham explains the Iran Nuclear deal and why President Trump wants to get rid of it.

Dr Ghanem Tayara from UOSSM talks about the Syrian government’s intimidation of doctors in Douma.

What’s on the agenda for the historic North & South Korea meeting tomorrow?  Dr Hazel Smith from the Centre for Korean Studies at SOAS has her analysis.

And the Government launches a new Veterans Unit – but are they doing enough to support our former service men and women Kate speaks to Defence Minister Tobias Ellwood and Matthew Seward from the Royal British Legion.

In this episode Kate Gerbeau and Christopher Lee will be talking about Syria and chemical weapons – what can the OPCW actually achieve in Douma?  They talk to Dr Patricia Lewis, Research Director at Chatham House

Also…North Korea, Andrea Berger, Senior Research Associate at the Middlebury Institute of International Studies at Monterey gives her thoughts on planned talks between the US President and the North Korean leader.  Is Donald Trump seeking a noble peace prize through diplomacy?

Ali Gibson reports from the RAF 100 celebrations over in the USA.

And a new study reveals how hard it is for armed forces veterans to use the benefits system.

Could Britain be about to go to war in Syria after the weekend’s suspected chemical weapons attack in Douma.

If that’s the case, the Sitrep team ask what would be the main aim of conflict?   If British forces take part - what will they be asked to do?  And will this be an open ended commitment?

Also this episode – Could Russia respond to any attack on Syria by using Cyber warfare and if so is Britain ready to deal with a category one attack.

Kate Gerbeau and Christopher Lee are joined by Professor Michael Clarke formerly the Director General of The Royal United Services Insitute, Hamish de Bretton Gordon the chemical weapons expert and former army officer and Simon Marks from Feature Story News in Washington

In this episode of Sitrep with Tim Cooper and Christopher Lee:

Professor Paul Rogers from the University of Bradford talks about Russia and the Salisbury Novichok attack – was the PM given the wrong information or has she created a new "dirty dossier"?

Elisabeth Braw from the Atlantic Council explains why the Swedes are getting good at fighting off Russian propaganda.

The head of Europol Rob Wainwright tells us about his cyber-warfare worries.

Rear Admiral (retired) Chris Parry tells us why the Royal Navy surface fleet “isn’t fit for purpose”.

In this episode hosted by Tim Cooper with BFBS Defence Analyst Christopher Lee we mark the 20th anniversary of the Good Friday Agreement in Northern Ireland.  Tim talks to Major General Julian Thompson, a former Royal Marine who commanded troops in South Armagh in 1976.  You’ll hear what it was like at the height of the troubles and why the agreement could be affected by Brexit.

Also… 

Salisbury attack: Alexander Nekrassov, a former advisor to the Kremlin has some strong opinions about the Salisbury Novichok poisoning. 

One year till Brexit: Defence writer Sebastian Schulte gives the German view of Britain’s European defence and security relationships.

New Chief of Defence Staff:  General Sir Nick Carter has been appointed, but what’s he like?

And The RAF celebrates 100 years in the sky….hear some classic RAF aircraft sounds!

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Why is the Government so sure the Novichok (pro: Novee- chock) chemical came from Russia?

As we commemorate those killed in the Westminster attack a year ago – Sitrep asks the experts how they think the general public should respond to a terrorist attack?

Could what facebook knows about you send your country to war?

And…. Finally, the Type 45 destroyers are getting an engine refit……….

THURSDAYS at 4:30pm UK TIME on BFBS RADIO 2 and at 6:30pm UK TIME on BFBS & UK Bases

You can listen on BFBS Radio 2 at 1630 (UK time) and at 1830 (UK time) on BFBS (via web & App in the UK and on FM in Scotland, Colchester, Salisbury Plain, Aldershot, Catterick & Blandford Forum).  On Sky Channel 0211.

Alternatively - listen again on the website, or download the Sitrep Podcast.

As Britain enters a new, difficult relationship with Russia –how will it hurt Moscow?  And who is on the UK’s side?

There’s a new Secretary of State for President Trump – how will U S policy affect the UK?

And the House of Commons Defence Committee, does the MoD listen to its criticism?

You can listen on BFBS Radio 2 at 1630 (UK time) and at 1830 (UK time) on BFBS (via web & App in the UK and on FM in Scotland, Colchester, Salisbury Plain, Aldershot, Catterick & Blandford Forum).  On Sky Channel 0211.

Alternatively - listen again on the website, or download the Sitrep Podcast.

Today on Sitrep:

Why the Kuwaitis want a greater British military presence in their country.

There’s a look at Britain’s foreign policy in the region with LibDem Defence spokesman Lord Campbell.

The Defence Secretary has had his first grilling by committee. Defence Committee Chair Julian Lewis explains how Gavin Williamson got on.

What are the military options in Syria?  with Hamish De Bretton Gordon.

And why is the Democratic Republic of the Congo on the brink of humanitarian disaster?

THURSDAYS at 4:30pm UK TIME on BFBS RADIO 2 and at 6:30pm UK TIME on BFBS & UK Bases

Nato’s new command structure – what’s changed and why?

In Syria, who’s fighting who?

Should the West be worried about China and Russia’s increasing military power?

And could the damage to Oxfam’s credibility have a serious impact on the search for peace in a region? 

THURSDAYS at 4:30pm UK TIME on BFBS RADIO 2 and at 6:30pm UK TIME on BFBS & UK Bases

You can listen on BFBS Radio 2 at 1630 (UK time) and at 1830 (UK time) on BFBS (via web & App in the UK and on FM in Scotland, Colchester, Salisbury Plain, Aldershot, Catterick & Blandford Forum).  On Sky Channel 0211.

Alternatively - listen again on the website, or download the Sitrep Podcast.

In today’s Sitrep programme – Kate Gerbeau and Christopher Lee examine the potential of a new, long range super-speed missile that can reach a target anywhere in the world within one hour.

Also this week - what’s the true story behind the threat to the Royal Marines and the two ships that float them?

Find out why the British Army has joined the campaign to make 2018 the Year of Engineering.

Plus - the military nurses who fought for votes for women.

And Trump wants a military parade – but will he get one?

THURSDAYS at 4:30pm UK TIME on BFBS RADIO 2 and at 6:30pm UK TIME on BFBS & UK Bases

You can listen on BFBS Radio 2 at 1630 (UK time) and at 1830 (UK time) on BFBS (via web & App in the UK and on FM in Scotland, Colchester, Salisbury Plain, Aldershot, Catterick & Blandford Forum).  On Sky Channel 0211.

Alternatively - listen again on the website, or download the Sitrep Podcast

In today’s Sitrep programme – Kate Gerbeau and Christopher Lee discuss how a multi-billion pound black hole in the defence budget could affect future spending decisions.

Also this week, Trump delivered his first State of the Union address...are we now seeing a more presidential President?

Plus, the Chief of the Air Staff talks about the RAF's biggest challenges...

And the former Chief of the Defence Staff, Lord Richards, predicts what might be in store for the new CDS.

THURSDAYS at 4:30pm UK TIME on BFBS RADIO 2 and at 6:30pm UK TIME on BFBS & UK Bases

You can listen on BFBS Radio 2 at 1630 (UK time) and at 1830 (UK time) on BFBS (via web & App in the UK and on FM in Scotland, Colchester, Salisbury Plain, Aldershot, Catterick & Blandford Forum).  On Sky Channel 0211.

Alternatively - listen again on the website, or download the Sitrep Podcast.

The Government’s Defence Modernisation Programme – what does it mean and what will it do?

Drawdown in Germany could be partially reversed, but what does that mean for the Army and European defence?

Why the Russian threat is causing concern in the Arctic.

Should we be doing more to protect peacekeepers?

And, DAVOS – what is it and why is it important?

THURSDAYS at 4:30pm UK TIME on BFBS RADIO 2 and at 6:30pm UK TIME on BFBS & UK Bases

You can listen on BFBS Radio 2 at 1630 (UK time) and at 1830 (UK time) on BFBS (via web & App in the UK and on FM in Scotland, Colchester, Salisbury Plain, Aldershot, Catterick & Blandford Forum).  On Sky Channel 0211.

Alternatively - listen again on the website, or download the Sitrep Podcast.

The US Ambassador speaks exclusively to Sitrep about the big issues he’s reporting back to Washington.

Today’s Anglo-French summit will boost defence co-operation, but could Brexit cause the two countries to drift apart?

Is Forces accommodation in crisis?

And, find out why cinema audiences are standing up for Churchill

THURSDAYS at 4:30pm UK TIME on BFBS RADIO 2 and at 6:30pm UK TIME on BFBS & UK Bases

You can listen on BFBS Radio 2 at 1630 (UK time) and at 1830 (UK time) on BFBS (via web & App in the UK and on FM in Scotland, Colchester, Salisbury Plain, Aldershot, Catterick & Blandford Forum).  On Sky Channel 0211.

Alternatively - listen again on the website, or download the Sitrep Podcast.

What will 2018 have in store for the British Forces?

There’s a bleak forecast for defence from a top analyst but is it really all doom and gloom?

Find out why some people think the British Army is top heavy.

And, who’s in the running to be the new Chief of the Defence Staff?

THURSDAYS at 4:30pm UK TIME on BFBS RADIO 2 and at 6:30pm UK TIME on BFBS & UK Bases

You can listen on BFBS Radio 2 at 1630 (UK time) and at 1830 (UK time) on BFBS (via web & App in the UK and on FM in Scotland, Colchester, Salisbury Plain, Aldershot, Catterick & Blandford Forum).  On Sky Channel 0211.

Alternatively - listen again on the website, or download the Sitrep Podcast.