London, UK — In a comprehensive strategic defence review to be unveiled on Monday, the United Kingdom is set to declare the urgent need for "war-fighting readiness" in response to escalating geopolitical tensions, especially from Russia. However, while the report highlights growing military risks, it stops short of announcing immediate troop increases or fresh spending commitments.
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| BAYEUX, FRANCE - MAY 30: Members of the legendary Gurkha troops of the British Army, at the Bayeux War Cemetery, France (Photo by Artur Widak/NurPhoto via Getty Images) |
The 130-page review, to be introduced by Prime Minister Keir Starmer, urges the UK to bolster its stockpiles of weapons and critical military supplies, which analysts say could be depleted within days during a high-intensity conflict.
“This review ensures that Britain is prepared to meet today's threats and that our armed forces are equipped for the challenges ahead,” said Starmer.
No Immediate Troop Expansion Expected
Despite acknowledging the increasingly volatile global landscape, the review does not propose immediate plans to expand the British Armed Forces, currently at their smallest size in over 300 years.
Defence Secretary John Healey admitted on Sunday that any increases in personnel numbers would need to wait until after the next general election. Speaking to the BBC, Healey noted the British Army has dwindled to just 70,860 soldiers, falling short of the government's existing target of 73,000.
“We’ve had 15 years of recruitment and retention struggles. Our first priority must be to reverse the trend,” Healey said. “Only then can we consider a gradual increase in force size during the next Parliament.”
Defence sources had speculated that Healey might push for a new target of 76,000 troops, a move estimated to cost £2.5 billion in salaries, housing, and military equipment.
A Shift in Global Threats
The review, led by Lord Robertson, a former NATO Secretary General, delivers 62 key recommendations for improving UK defence strategy in what it calls a “new era of threats.”
Among the most pressing dangers outlined:
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Russia is considered an "immediate and urgent threat."
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China is described as a "persistent and strategic challenge" to British interests.
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Iran and North Korea are labeled “regional disruptors” with growing potential for collaboration against Western powers.
Despite Russia’s ongoing war in Ukraine, experts warn that a ceasefire could allow Moscow to refocus its military capabilities—boasting over 600,000 troops—on threatening other NATO member states.
Key Proposals in the Strategic Defence Review
The report outlines several significant defence developments, including:
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AUKUS Submarine Commitment: The UK will build 12 nuclear-powered attack submarines at Barrow-in-Furness and Raynesway, Derby, under the trilateral AUKUS pact with the US and Australia. These vessels, due to enter service by the late 2030s, will replace the current Astute-class fleet.
Nuclear Arsenal Modernisation: A £15 billion investment is planned to modernize the UK's nuclear weapons infrastructure at Aldermaston, supporting over 9,000 jobs and ensuring supply continuity for the new Dreadnought-class submarines, the future carriers of the Trident deterrent.
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Creation of a Modern Home Guard: A volunteer-led civil defence unit is expected to be formed to protect critical infrastructure—such as airports, communication hubs, and energy grids—from drone and cyberattacks, relieving pressure on regular forces.
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Discussion on Air-Launched Nuclear Capabilities: Ministers are reportedly considering the acquisition of F-35A fighter jets, which are compatible with the US-made B61-12 tactical nuclear bomb. This move would expand Britain’s nuclear delivery options beyond submarine-based systems, though any agreement would require complex negotiations with the US and compliance with international treaties.
Cyber Warfare and Drone Threats on the Rise
The defence review pays special attention to the growing influence of emerging technologies in modern warfare, including artificial intelligence, autonomous drones, and digital espionage.
In a stark illustration of evolving threats, Ukraine recently executed a drone strike operation deep inside Russian territory, reportedly damaging 40 bombers stationed at key airfields. The strike, dubbed Operation Spider’s Web, was made possible by remotely operated drones concealed inside Russia for months.
Budget Increases Delayed but Planned
While no immediate funding boost is expected in the short term, the review confirms that defence spending will rise to 2.5% of GDP by 2027, with a longer-term goal of reaching 3% during the next parliamentary term.
Further discussions around NATO-wide defence expenditure targets—potentially as high as 5% of GDP (including cyber and infrastructure security)—are expected at a key summit in The Hague later this month.
“For over 70 years, our nuclear deterrent has been the ultimate guarantee of UK security. It remains what President Putin fears most,” said Healey, emphasizing continued support for the Trident nuclear programme.
Conclusion
The UK’s refreshed defence strategy signals a decisive pivot toward conflict readiness amid rising global instability. With mounting threats from state and non-state actors alike, the nation’s focus is turning to readiness, resilience, and technological modernization. While immediate troop expansions are off the table, the groundwork is being laid for significant long-term investment in Britain’s military and security infrastructure.
