It happened on Tuesday evening in Gillingham - near Brompton Barracks, headquarters of the Army's 1 Royal School of Military Engineering Regiment.

The army declined to comment on reports the soldier was in uniform at the time.

Kent Police said the victim, who is in his 40s, suffered injuries consistent with stab wounds.

His condition was described as serious.

Police were called to the scene around 5.55pm, with the 24-year-old suspect arrested at 6.20pm.

Defence Secretary John Healey called the incident "shocking", adding: "On behalf of the government, I wish him a swift recovery."

The incident comes 11 years after Lee Rigby was murdered near the Royal Artillery Barracks in Woolwich, southeast London.

An army spokesperson said: "We're very sorry to confirm that a soldier has sustained serious injuries in an attack in Chatham, Kent.

"Our thoughts are with the soldier and their family and we request that their privacy is respected at this difficult time."

They added: "We will continue to work closely with Kent Police to understand what happened and support the investigation.

"Anyone who witnessed the attack or who has any relevant information should contact Kent Police."