UK to increase defence budget to record level since the Cold War
British Prime Minister Keir Starmer has announced the largest increase in defence spending since the Cold War. The British government plans to increase the defence budget to 2.5% of GDP from April 2027, and then to 3%.
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Starmer stressed that his primary task is to ensure the country's security. According to him, in today's world, it is crucial to increase the resilience of the state to protect citizens, withstand shocks and defend national interests.
The defence budget provides for investments in the development of artificial intelligence, quantum computing and space technologies. The increase in spending is expected to boost the defence industry, strengthen production in various regions of the country and support more than 430,000 jobs.
The British F-35B. Illustration: Royal Air Force of the United Kingdom
In addition, the government plans to improve interoperability with allies to ensure that the UK remains a key player in European security. The defence budget also includes contributions from the UK's intelligence and security services, recognising their role in national defence.
Starmer is also expected to visit Washington this week to discuss UK-US defence cooperation with President Trump.
Source: UK Defence Journal
