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.
His Commanding Officer said:
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.
His Former Commanding Officer said:
We are devastated by the loss of Major Paul Wilks.
Paul brought intellect, professionalism and quiet determination to everything he did. He had so much more to give to the Unit, to those under his Command, and to the profession he cared for so deeply.
Yet what marked Paul out most was not just his professional ability, but his humanity. He had that rare and enviable quality of seeing the best in people. He was a consummate professional and a deeply caring Officer, someone who treated mistakes not as failures, but as opportunities to learn and grow. Those he led always came first, whatever the circumstances.
Paul was truly one of the finest leaders and intelligence officers I have had the privilege to work with. A rising star within intelligence, his intellect, compassion, and professionalism were matched by his humility and care for others. He was the best of us.
Chief of Defence Intelligence and Colonel Commandant Intelligence Corps Lieutenant General Matthew Jones said:
On behalf of the whole Intelligence Corps, we are heartbroken to learn of Major Paul Wilks’ death. Paul was an exceptional leader who was undoubtedly one of the most talented intelligence officers of his generation.
Paul was committed to operational excellence in everything he did. With a selfless and compassionate approach, his primary concern was always his team. He was supremely motivated by developing those around him. Paul possessed a razor-sharp intellect and a steely determination to succeed.
Paul 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. The hugely positive example he set will continue to inspire us in the years ahead.
Defence Secretary Rt Hon Wes Streeting MP said:
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.
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.
Major Paul Wilks