The British Army currently has more horses than tanks, according to official Ministry of Defence figures. As of July 2012, there were 501 horses and 334 tanks, including the Challenger 2 main battle tank. The revelation came as Chief Secretary to the Treasury Danny Alexander criticised the MoD's spending, stating that in a department with more horses than tanks, there is room for efficiency savings.
The MoD confirmed the numbers but declined to comment on Alexander's remarks. The horses are used exclusively for ceremonial purposes, with the Household Cavalry and King's Troop Royal Horse Artillery maintaining traditions dating back centuries. These units participate in events such as Trooping the Colour, royal weddings, and state occasions.
Despite the ceremonial role, the Household Cavalry also serves operationally, with troopers deploying overseas in armoured vehicles. The army's introduction to the mounted regiment states that ceremonial duties symbolise the UK's military heritage and enhance the standing of the sovereign and nation.
Meanwhile, the army's tank fleet is set to shrink under the Future Force 2020 programme. David Willey, curator of The Tank Museum, noted that tanks have repeatedly faced obsolescence fears but have proven essential. He cited a 1920s exercise where mechanised forces defeated traditional cavalry, leading to the army's mechanisation push.
The spending review, expected next week, will announce a 1% increase in military equipment budgets but a 5% overall reduction. Alexander praised the MoD's plans to cut procurement costs, highlighting the horse-to-tank ratio as an example of inefficiency.
