Camilla Jessen
Britain gears up for biggest defense revamp since the Cold War, with a sharp focus on hybrid threats and European security.
British Prime Minister Keir Starmer has said the UK “cannot ignore” the threat posed by Russia, as the government prepares to release an updated national defence strategy.
In an interview with the BBC, Mr Starmer pointed to Russia’s continued aggression in Ukraine as evidence that the UK must reassess its military posture.
“We cannot ignore the threat that Russia poses,” Mr Starmer said.
We’ve seen what has happened in Ukraine over the past three years. This is a security reality we have to face.
Defence Spending to Rise
According to Digi24, the comments come ahead of the publication of a strategic defence review, carried out on behalf of the government by former NATO Secretary General Lord George Robertson.
The review will highlight the increasing importance of hybrid threats — such as cyberattacks, disinformation, and economic coercion — in modern warfare.
Mr Starmer’s government has already committed to raising defence spending to 2.5% of GDP by 2027. The increase, announced in February, marks the largest boost to UK military funding since the end of the Cold War.
At present, the UK spends around 2.3% of GDP on defence.
Focus on NATO and European Security
The UK’s role in NATO and European security will be central to the updated strategy, which comes as the United States and other allies call for European nations to take greater responsibility for their own defence.
Speaking to the BBC, Mr Starmer declined to say whether the UK would send troops in the event of a European conflict, but he stressed the need for readiness.
“What we’re facing today is very different from a decade ago,” he said. “We need to be prepared.”
The forthcoming review is expected to include plans to strengthen the UK’s military capabilities, rebuild ammunition stockpiles, and increase the country’s ability to ramp up production of defence equipment if needed.
Hybrid Warfare and Modern Threats
Lord Robertson’s recommendations are likely to focus heavily on so-called hybrid warfare, where traditional military operations are combined with cyberattacks, disinformation campaigns, and other unconventional tactics.
The review will also examine how the UK can work more closely with its NATO partners to ensure a coordinated response to evolving threats.
“We have to adapt to a changing world,” Mr Starmer said. “This is about protecting our country, our allies, and our values.”
The strategic review is expected to be published in full later this week.