50 Scots soldiers have been dismissed after testing positive for drugs in the last two years, new figures have revealed.
Squaddies serving in the Royal Regiment of Scotland tested positive for illegal substances during random tests. A total of 40 Army personnel failed tests in 2023, and a further 10 in 2024, with all dismissed following a disciplinary process.
All soldiers and officers are subject to spot tests for drugs at any time and anywhere in the world, whether serving in war zones or stationed at home.
Failed tests remain on their Army records for life, making job searching difficult once they leave the military.
The ranks of those who tested positive in the last two years were privates, lance corporals and an officer, according to Ministry of Defence data, released under freedom of information laws. The drugs involved were cocaine, cannabis, amphetamines, ketamine and banned steroids.
Experts have warned of an increasing level of combat stress among troops with many turning to alcohol and drugs to deal with traumatic illness. They say personnel are using them to self-medicate and escape an uncomfortable reality.
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It has also been claimed that some soldiers deliberately fail tests as a shortcut home if they are trying to avoid going to conflict zones.
An Army spokesperson said: “Drug use in the Armed Forces is unacceptable, and incompatible with military service. Any Service Personnel caught taking drugs can expect to be discharged.
“We have a number of measures in place to prevent drug use including compulsory drug testing.”
The Army said exceptions are occasionally made under specific circumstances, so that in rare cases individuals may be retained rather than being discharged from the service.
They campaign against substance misuse and have a comprehensive education programme to inform all personnel of the dangers and consequences of substance misuse, including dismissal from service.
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