Major Paul Wilks died in a road traffic accident away from the front lines on Saturday September 12.
A 40-year-old intelligence officer died in a road crash in Ukraine at the weekend, the Ministry of Defence said.
Major Paul Wilks died in a road traffic accident away from the front lines on Saturday September 12.
He was commissioned from Sandhurst in 2012 and joined the Intelligence Corps, where he remained throughout his career.
It is with great sadness that we confirm the death of Major Paul Wilks, who died in a tragic road traffic incident in Ukraine, away from the front lines, on 12 September. pic.twitter.com/wqRVWJ0bZP
— Ministry of Defence 🇬🇧 (@DefenceHQ) September 16, 2026
His Commanding Officer described him as a “man of great intellect”, who often spoke of his love for his wife and two sons.
He was deployed on multiple tours, including to Afghanistan, and was recognised with two Operational Service Medals.
Major Wilks also received the Long Service and Good Conduct Medal in May this year.
A Ministry of Defence spokesperson confirmed Major Wilks’ death on Wednesday, saying it came with “great sadness”.
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.
“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.”
Lieutenant General Matthew Jones, Colonel Commandant Intelligence Corps, described Major Wilks as “one of the most talented intelligence officers of his generation”.
Major Wilks served this country with pride and dedication. His loss will be deeply felt by those around him.
The tributes paid by those who worked with Paul illustrate his exceptional talent and ability, underscored by genuine warmth, compassion and a desire to support others.… https://t.co/pxJJsRGFbt
— Wes Streeting (@wesstreeting) September 16, 2026
Defence Secretary Wes Streeting also paid tribute to Major Wilks, saying he “served this country with pride and dedication”.
He said: “His loss is a poignant reminder of the enormous sacrifice that our Armed Forces and their families make in the service of our country.
“My thoughts remain with his family, loved ones and colleagues.”
There is a small number of British personnel in Ukraine who provide security to diplomats and support the country’s armed forces.
British paratrooper George Hooley, 28, was killed in Ukraine in December when he watched Ukrainian forces testing a new defensive capability.
