LONDON, England: UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer, fresh from a NATO summit, announced on Tuesday a comprehensive review of Britain’s armed forces, aimed at increasing defense spending to 2.5 percent of GDP. This “Strategic Defense Review” is set to commence immediately, reflecting the urgent threats facing the UK, with a report expected in the first half of 2025.
This initiative follows Starmer’s recent assumption of office and serves as a direct response to Conservative Party criticisms of Labour’s defense policies. During the election campaign, the Tories had frequently attacked Labour, citing Starmer’s lack of a specific timeline for increasing defense expenditure and labeling Labour a “danger” to national security.
At the NATO summit in Washington, Starmer reaffirmed the UK’s commitment to the Western military alliance and its serious dedication to achieving the 2.5 percent GDP defense spending target. The review will be led by George Robertson, a former defense secretary and NATO secretary-general, ensuring a “NATO-first” policy at the core of Britain’s defense strategy.
Starmer emphasized the importance of responsibly increasing defense spending, with oversight provided by current defense secretary John Healey. Healey highlighted the need for a new defense era that aligns with Britain’s future security and economic growth.
Specific objectives of the review include strengthening Ukraine’s defense against Russian aggression and modernizing the UK’s nuclear deterrent. At the NATO summit, Starmer committed to providing £3 billion ($3.9 billion) annually in military support for Ukraine until 2030-31, underscoring the UK’s dedication to bolstering Ukraine’s efforts against Russia.
This strategic review marks a significant step in redefining Britain’s defense priorities, addressing immediate threats, and ensuring long-term national security and economic stability.
