British soldier who died in road crash in Ukraine named

The British armed forces member who died in Ukraine at the weekend has been named as Major Paul Wilks.

The 40-year-old intelligence officer died in a road traffic accident away from the front lines on Saturday, the Ministry of Defence (MoD) said.

Remembered as a "man of great intellect", Major Wilks was deployed on multiple tours, including to Afghanistan, and was recognised with two Operational Service Medals.

And he was awarded the Long Service and Good Conduct Medal in May.

He was commissioned from Sandhurst in 2012 and joined the Intelligence Corps, where he remained throughout his career.

"Major Wilks was an exceptionally bright and professional officer who embodied the best of the UK military," the MoD said.

"He was a gifted leader who earned the admiration and respect of all those fortunate enough to have served alongside him. He was a formidable officer, colleague and friend to all those who knew him.

"Above all, Major Wilks was a proud family man and was devoted to his wife and two sons."

His Commanding Officer described him as a "man of great intellect", who often spoke of his love for his wife and two sons.

"It is with profound sadness that we honour the memory of Major Paul Wilks," his commanding officer said.

"Even in high-pressure environments, Paul maintained a sharp sense of humour and a genuine warmth that connected him to everyone in this unit.

"He was a man of great intellect, yet he remained a mate to those he served with."

Read more from Sky News:
Government departments to refresh war plans
Officers cleared of charge over teen soldier

Lieutenant General Matthew Jones, Chief of Defence Intelligence and Colonel Commandant Intelligence Corps, said Major Wilks "was an exceptional leader who was undoubtedly one of the most talented intelligence officers of his generation".

He "possessed a razor-sharp intellect and a steely determination to succeed" and "was always calm under pressure, good-humoured even in the most arduous of conditions, shrewd, and decisive".

He leaves behind a legacy that will endure within the Intelligence Corps and beyond," Mr Jones said.

"The hugely positive example he set will continue to inspire us in the years ahead."

Defence Secretary Wes Streeting said the loss of Major Wilks will be "deeply felt by those around him".

(c) Sky News 2026: British soldier who died in road crash in Ukraine named