UK to boost cadet force by over 40,000 by 2030

Young people will have more chances to join the Armed Forces Cadets, under a major expansion of cadet forces across the country, the Ministry of Defence has announced.

Under a new ‘30 by 30’ campaign, the government is expanding cadet opportunities for a new generation of young people – boosting cadet forces by 30% by 2030 – backed by £70 million of new investment.

Delivering on the Strategic Defence Review, this would see over 40,000 more cadets across the UK.

Under the expansion, young people will have the chance to gain more qualifications, improve their confidence, and learn about the military.

The initiative, which delivers on the Strategic Defence Review, will prioritise the expansion of cadets across all four nations, ensuring every young person has the chance to discover their potential, regardless of postcode or family income.

To support the ‘30 by 30’ campaign, the Government will deliver a package of measures to boost cadet forces, including:

New joint Army and RAF Air Cadet Centres: adding to the five already opened and 12 under construction since this Government came into office.
Increasing adult volunteers: streamlining the process for becoming an adult Cadet volunteer and a new fast-track opportunity for veterans to become volunteers.
A National Cadet Champion: Hunt launched today for a new appointment to support and endorse the Cadet Forces.
Boosting STEM skills: new opportunities to develop STEM skills and try new technologies through the cadets, including Civilian Aviation Authority approval for RAF Air cadets to deliver a CAA-endorsed qualifications in drone piloting. This will offer air cadet and Cadet Force Adult Volunteers industry-recognised and transferable qualifications.
Improving regular and reserve support for Cadets: greater opportunities for our UK military personnel – both regulars and reserves – to support the Cadet Forces.

New joint Army and Air Cadet Centres will be built – adding to the five already opened and 12 under construction, since the Government came into power to support the growth of school-based cadet units.

The investment will also supercharge further opportunities in developing STEM skills and cutting-edge cyber skills training and hands-on experience with the latest drone and submersible technology – the same innovations reshaping Britain’s defence and economic landscape.