British-made gas masks could play a crucial role in enhancing the defense capabilities of Ukrainian soldiers. Avon Protection, based in Melksham, Wiltshire, produces these “world-leading” masks, which are in high demand as Ukraine contends with allegations of chemical weapons use.
The Ukrainian government has requested an additional 90,000 gas masks from international allies. Avon Protection, which manufactures approximately 500,000 masks annually at its facilities in Wiltshire and the US, is poised to assist. The UK Ministry of Defence has already supplied 8,500 gas masks since 2022 and is in ongoing discussions with Ukraine to tailor the equipment to their needs.
Steve Elwell, President of Avon Protection, emphasized the FM50 model’s global reputation for excellence, noting that around 4 million of these masks are sold each year worldwide. He explained that gas masks can be a strategic advantage in combat situations by allowing soldiers to remain protected without leaving their positions.
Former army chemical weapons commander Hamish de Bretton-Gordon highlighted the urgent need for high-quality gas masks, noting that current Soviet-era masks used by Ukrainian troops are outdated and ineffective. “Some units are facing chemical attacks multiple times a day,” he said. “The masks they currently have are inadequate.”