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UK Unveils Strategic Defence Review to Bolster War-Fighting Readiness

A NATO-first shift to war-fighting readiness built on rising spending to 2.5% of GDP, modernised nuclear deterrent, expanded submarine capacity, advanced cyber capabilities aims to deter Russia’s immediate threat.

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Starmer pledged to turn the UK into a "battle-ready, armour-clad nation."
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Overview

  • The review directs a shift to war-fighting readiness as the armed forces’ central purpose and adopts a NATO-first stance focused on deterring Russian aggression.
  • Defence spending will rise to 2.5% of GDP by April 2027 with an unstipulated ambition to reach 3% in the next parliament.
  • A £15 billion programme will modernise the UK’s nuclear warheads and fund up to 12 AUKUS nuclear-powered attack submarines to replace ageing vessels from the late 2030s.
  • Procurement of up to 7,000 UK-built long-range missiles, six new munitions factories and a dedicated Cyber and Electromagnetic Command aim to bolster munitions stockpiles and digital warfare capabilities.
  • Officials project the overhaul will support around 30,000 highly skilled jobs, though analysts warn the 3% GDP target may necessitate tax rises or spending cuts elsewhere.