Olympics security: Extra 3500 troops drafted in to cover shortfall AN EXTRA 3,500 military personnel will be deployed during the Olympics because of concerns private firm G4S will not be able to provide adequate security, Defence Secretary Philip Hammond confirmed today. Olympics security firm G4S unable find enough personnel for London Games Philip Hammond confirms 17,000 troops will be deployed in total Mr Hammond admitted the move, which means 17,000 troops will now be involved in the Olympics, will impose an extra burden upon individual service men and women and their families, "especially over the summer holiday season." But bringing in extra military resources was "prudent" and would help ensure the safety of the Games, he said. Mr Hammond said the deployment was "feasible and will have no adverse impact on other operations." He released his statement to MPs as Home Secretary Theresa May prepared to answer an urgent question over the situation in the Commons. "As the venue security exercise has got under way, concerns have arisen about the ability of G4S to deliver the required number of guards for all the venues within the timescales available," Mr Hammond said. Ministers have been monitoring this situation and, where necessary, preparing contingency measures. G4S has now agreed that it would be prudent to deploy additional military support to provide greater reassurance. The Home Secretary has therefore requested additional MoD support, and I have authorised the deployment of a further 3,500 military personnel. This will bring the total number of military personnel, from all three services and including reservists, contributing to the safety and security of the Games to 17,000. He went on: "The Chiefs of Staff recognise the importance of the Olympic Games and support this deployment, confirming that this deployment is feasible and will have no adverse impact on other operations. Ministers across Government recognise the burden that this additional short-notice deployment will impose upon individual service men and women and their families, especially over the summer holiday season. We will ensure that all those taking part receive their full leave entitlement, even if it has to be rescheduled, that no one is out of pocket due to cancelled personal arrangements and that all deployed personnel are appropriately supported. Mrs May told MPs she knew the country could rely on the troops to help provide a safe Games. She added that 10,000 Olympics and Paralympics tickets had been donated to armed services through Tickets for Troops. A further 7,000 tickets were also being made available to troops for the dress rehearsals of the opening and closing ceremonies to recognise their extra commitment.