Role of women in the armed forces celebrated on International Women’s Day

Women in the armed forces have been praised by defence secretary Gavin Williamson for the critical role they play in defending Britain.

His words come on International Women’s Day (Thursday March 8th) and were marked with a visit to RAF Brize Norton where Mr Williamson met women on the front line of the RAF’s transport operations.

An increasing number of women are joining the armed forces, with over 12 per cent of new recruits this year being female, up from 11.2 per cent last year.

More than ten per cent of the military is now made up of women, with the RAF leading the way with 14 per cent female representation, and the MOD is on track to meet its target of 15 per cent of the military being female by 2020.

Speaking during his visit to RAF Brize Norton, Mr Williamson said: “Women play a crucial role across our armed forces and it is important we reflect on the amazing contribution they make every single day keeping the British people safe.

“It is vital that we have the very best people our society has to offer and that they also represent the society that they defend.”