The UK has launched a new global esports competition aimed at helping Armed Forces personnel develop the digital skills needed for modern warfare. The International Defence Esports Games (IDEG), unveiled in London, will see serving personnel from more than 40 nations compete in games designed to test rapid decision-making, coordination, and cyber awareness.
The initiative follows the UK’s decision in 2024 to formally recognise esports as a military sport. It is intended to support the government’s Plan for Change by strengthening national cyber capabilities at a time when the UK faces more than 90,000 cyber-attacks each year.
Developing digital skills through gaming
Competitive gaming is already used by militaries around the world to improve skills such as threat tracking, operating under pressure, and adapting tactics in real time. Recent experience in Ukraine – where drone operators have trained using custom-built simulator games to improve accuracy and reaction time – has reinforced its value.
Personnel from the UK, Canada, Poland and other allied nations will take part in the first full competition cycle, with the IDEG26 finals scheduled to be held at the new National Gaming and Esports Arena in Sunderland in October 2026. The event will also include summits on AI, cyber security and drone operations.
Minister for Veterans and People Louise Sandher-Jones MP said the changing nature of warfare required new approaches to training. She highlighted the role gaming can play in “developing the rapid decision-making skills essential for modern operations”.
Strengthening allied partnerships
General Sir Tom Copinger-Symes, deputy commander of Cyber and Specialist Operations Command, said the games would help build capability across allied nations while strengthening international partnerships in defence technology.
Chester King, president of British Esports, described the launch as a “historic moment” for military esports and said Sunderland’s hosting of the 2026 finals would help showcase the region’s growing digital sector.
Industry backing
The launch was supported by industry partners including BAE Systems and Babcock International. The British Forces Broadcasting Service will act as the official media partner, with M&C Saatchi joining as a founding partner for IDEG26.
The programme is intended to place the UK at the forefront of military esports and ensure the next generation of cyber specialists is equipped for the demands of future conflict.
