A groundbreaking partnership with the International Defence Esports Games (IDEG) will enhance the digital and cyber capabilities of UK Armed Forces personnel, with a particular focus on AI,
drone operations, and emerging technologies. An annual summit will further spotlight education, recruitment, and skills development across defence and industry.
In a move to bolster the digital readiness of its Armed Forces, the Ministry of Defence (MOD) has partnered with the British Esports Federation to launch the UK’s first-ever defence-industry esports tournament. Delivered through UK Strategic Command—soon to become Cyber and Specialist Operations Command—the initiative aims to sharpen cyber proficiency, digital literacy, and AI capabilities among military personnel.
By integrating esports into defence training, the UK is enhancing its warfighting readiness, keeping pace with technological advancements, and supporting the government’s wider “Plan for Change.” Lessons from Ukraine, where self-developed drone simulator games have improved operator skills, have underscored the value of esports as a practical tool for developing cyber and drone operation expertise.
The IDEG will provide a dynamic platform for service members, including reservists, to build critical cyber and digital competencies. Over time, participation will extend to cadets, veterans, civil servants, and defence industry professionals.
Minister for Veterans and People, Al Carns DSO OBE MC MP, said:
“Esports will help attract, develop, and retain top cyber and digital talent, while fostering this government’s Plan for Change. Our people must now be as adept with code, cybersecurity and a games controller as they are with traditional combat skills.
From drone operations to data analysis, modern defence and deterrence needs agile minds that can navigate both physical and digital battlegrounds.
The International Defence Esports Games is an exciting initiative that will help foster exactly these skills in a fun, collaborative way, and overcome many traditional boundaries between our international partners”.
The IDEG’s inaugural finals are scheduled to take place in the UK in late 2026. British Esports will organise the event alongside a premier esports production company, with support from defence suppliers such as BAE Systems and several emerging military tech firms.
Chester King, President, British Esports said:
“Military esports has been steadily growing in recent years, and today we’re delighted to announce a first-of-its-kind tournament for military personnel around the world.
The UK’s armed forces have recognised video games as a positive activity that can improve personnel welfare and morale, foster digital and cyber skills, and strengthen relations across the armed forces and beyond.
We’re happy to announce the International Defence Esports Games and support the future of the military.
Recently the Royal Navy partnered with British Esports to launch an esports facility aboard UK aircraft carrier HMS Prince of Wales, featuring gaming gear from the likes of Alienware, NVIDIA and Intel. Those in attendance included members of the Singapore Armed Forces, Singapore Esports Association (SGEA), the national body British Esports, and Deputy Commander UK Strategic Command, Lt Gen Sir Tom Copinger-Symes, who has been championing esports across UK Defence”.
This announcement follows recent milestones, including the Royal Navy’s partnership with British Esports to establish an esports facility aboard the HMS Prince of Wales. Equipped with high-end gaming technology from brands like Alienware, NVIDIA, and Intel, the facility serves as a hub for digital skill development and international engagement, with participation from the Singapore Armed Forces and Singapore Esports Association (SGEA).
Lieutenant General Sir Tom Copinger-Symes KCB CBE, Deputy Commander UK Strategic Command said:
“Esports and serious games can contribute to our warfighting readiness. As competition and conflict increasingly play out in cyberspace and the digital arena, these games equip our people to think, operate and innovate across both the physical and virtual worlds, developing team coordination and rapid decision-making under pressure.
We’ve learned from our Ukrainian partners about how esports can train drone operators and cyber security specialists. People are quickly grasping how esports can change perspectives and enhance skills, as well as reaching across borders with our international allies and partners.
For centuries we’ve used ball games like rugby and football to develop teamwork, hone mental and physical fitness and build resilience. Esports perfectly complement these games in preparing us for 21st Century security challenges”.
In parallel, the MOD has launched the Cyber Direct Entry Scheme, a specialised recruitment pathway for individuals with cyber and digital expertise. This initiative streamlines basic training to just one month, followed by an intensive three-month specialist cyber training programme, addressing the increasing demand for cyber security professionals within Defence.
This announcement comes just over a year after esports was officially recognised as a military sport by the MOD, ensuring funding and expanded opportunities for service personnel. The initiative also marks a deepening collaboration between the British Esports Federation and UK Defence. Photo: Harland Quarrington/MOD, Wikimedia commons.