UK Defense Secretary Opens All Military Combat Roles to Women

15:33 26.10.2018(updated 16:01 26.10.2018)

While the move has been hailed in some quarters as a win for “gender equality” there are naturally those who fear that the introduction of women on the frontline may create obstacles on the battlefield.

The UK Defense Secretary has announced that combat roles in the military, including the special forces, will now be open to women.

Gavin Williamson made the historic declaration this week in which he also said that women already in the ranks of the British Army will be able to apply for frontline combat roles, including into the elite “Special Air Service” (SAS) and Royal Marines.

UK Ready to Back US Plans to Exit INF Treaty to Send ‘Clear Message' to Russia

“Women have led the way with exemplary service in the armed forces for over 100 years, working in a variety of specialist and vital roles,” Mr. Williamson proclaimed.

“I am delighted that from today, for the first time in its history, our armed forces will be determined by ability alone and not gender. Opening all combat roles to women will not only make the armed forces a more modern employer but will ensure we recruit the right person for the right role,” he added.

Despite the seemingly epochal news, London has however expressed that it doesn't expect the gender composition of the military to change much any time soon.

A statement from the UK's Ministry of Defense (MoD) said that “while the military does not necessarily expect large numbers…