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If you're serving in Britain's Armed Forces, you'll soon be able to phone home from virtually anywhere in the world without worrying about the bill. Yes, really.
Vodafone has just unveiled an initiative that eliminates international roaming fees for all British military personnel. This means you can use your mobile phone for calls and data while stationed overseas, just as you would in Britain. You can use your UK data allowance, minutes and text messages whether you're stationed in Europe, North America, Africa or other covered regions — no additional charges will apply.
This new offer illustrates an opportunity for financial relief for service members who've long faced steep costs when contacting family from abroad. According to Vodafone, more than half of Britain's service personnel admit they limit contact with family members when stationed overseas due to financial constraints.
For instance, an hour-long conversation from the United States, Canada or Kenya would typically cost £144. Even calls from European postings like Germany, Gibraltar, Norway, Cyprus, or Estonia would set you back £36.
This new scheme also comes just as Remembrance Day in the UK is right around the corner, taking place on November 11.
Get FREE global roaming from Vodafone if you're a military personnel
If you're a military personnel, you can get free global roaming with Vodafone. The scheme runs through Vodafone’s Global Traveller package — normally up to £8 a day — and lets you use your phone in 83 countries as if you were at home. To qualify, you’ll need to take a new Vodafone Unlimited Airtime Plan with a device and over 1GB of data. Vodafone applies an exclusive 25% discount to your monthly airtime charges, which effectively offsets the roaming cost
FREE Global Roaming from Vodafone
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The scheme operates through Vodafone's Global Traveller package, which can normally cost up to £8 per day. You'll gain access to this service across 83 countries worldwide, effectively treating your overseas usage as domestic activity.
To qualify, you'll need to sign up for a new Vodafone Unlimited Airtime Plan that includes a mobile device and more than 1GB of data. The company applies an exclusive 25% discount to your monthly airtime charges, which effectively covers the roaming costs.
Here's how it works:
- Apply for your discount by using your Ministry of Defence or Armed Forces email address.
- Vodafone will then send you a link with a discount code to claim
- Add your code(s) at checkout to receive the discount
If you're ex-service, you'll need to be signed up to the Defence Discount Service (DDS) to get your Vodafone Advantage discount code.
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Steve Knibbs, Director of Vodafone Business Security Enhanced, emphasises the company's recognition of the extraordinary service provided by Britain's military personnel. "We at Vodafone know what a magnificent job the men and women of our armed forces do for this country and the sacrifices they make on our behalf. We are proud to announce we are helping them in this small way – especially at this time of the year when Remembrance Day is at the forefront of our thoughts," he states.
He acknowledges the financial toll that has historically prevented regular communication. "Far too often, members of the armed forces have faced difficult decisions about when and how to reach out to their loved ones because of cost concerns," Mr Knibbs explains.
Vodafone also offers specially tailored broadband packages for service personnel, including exclusive full-fibre deals designed for military families
| VODAFONE PRESS OFFICEAs of this year, there are currently over 180,000 active military personnel in the UK.
This isn't the only initiative Vodafone has with Britain's military community. The company offers specially tailored broadband packages for service personnel, including exclusive full-fibre deals designed for military families.
If you're a veteran or reservist, you'll also find dedicated career transition services and flexible employment opportunities within the organisation. Vodafone holds the Gold Award from the Defence Employer Recognition Scheme and maintains its status as a signatory to the Armed Forces Covenant.
The company's support manifests through various sponsorships, including UK Armed Forces Rugby and the International Defence Rugby Competition.
Vodafone will also serve as the Presenting Sponsor for the Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo 2025.
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