Ministry of Defence confirms the death of Major Paul Wilks

It is with great sadness that the Ministry of Defence must confirm the death of Major Paul Wilks, who died in Ukraine on 12 September 2026.

Major Paul Wilks died in a tragic road traffic incident, away from the front lines. He was 40 years old.

Major Wilks was born on 13 November 1985. He commissioned from Sandhurst on 14 April 2012 joining the Intelligence Corps where he remained throughout his career, successfully promoting to the rank of Major. Major Wilks had deployed on multiple operational tours including to Afghanistan. He was recognised for this service with two Operational Service Medals. He was also recently awarded the Long Service and Good Conduct Medal on 7 May 2026.

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

It is with profound sadness that we honour the memory of Major Paul Wilks.

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.

He spoke often of his love for his wife and two sons, expressing his deep gratitude for the support they provided, which allowed him to serve with such distinction. It is because of that foundation that he was able to meet the challenges of his role, and it is in the course of his devotion to duty that he made the ultimate sacrifice.

Major Wilks represented the finest traditions of UK Defence. It was a privilege to serve alongside him. We will miss him.

We are devastated by the loss of Major Paul Wilks.