Key facts
- BAE Systems CEO Charles Woodburn warns the UK is too complacent about foreign attack risks.
- Woodburn described the current threat level as the highest in his lifetime.
- He called for increased defense spending to meet the government's 3.5% of GDP target by 2035.
- The CEO highlighted the growing use of autonomous lethal weapons by adversaries.
- BAE Systems is developing uncrewed Collaborative Combat Aircraft to supplement traditional military platforms.
The United Kingdom has become too complacent regarding the threat of foreign attack, according to Dr. Charles Woodburn, the CEO of BAE Systems, Europe's largest defense contractor. In an interview with the BBC, Woodburn stated that the current level of threat is the highest he has witnessed in his lifetime, a sentiment echoed by concerns from senior UK armed services figures about the nation's war readiness.
Woodburn welcomed the recent increase in defense spending but emphasized that further investment is crucial to achieve the government's goal of spending 3.5% of GDP on defense by 2035. He also raised concerns about the rapid advancement of autonomous lethal weapons by countries that may not adhere to the UK's policy of maintaining human control over such systems. He noted that Russia and Ukraine have become highly proficient in utilizing autonomous capabilities, particularly drones and counter-drone technology, necessitating a strategic response from the UK.
BAE Systems has been actively developing advanced defense capabilities, including unveiling a life-size model of an uncrewed fighter jet, known as a Collaborative Combat Aircraft. These aircraft are designed to accompany manned fighters, significantly increasing firepower at a fraction of the cost. However, Woodburn stressed that traditional platforms like battleships and submarines, which BAE has long manufactured, remain vital, especially as adversaries are also developing large-scale assets supplemented by unmanned systems. He believes the combination of both is key to achieving victory.
The CEO pointed to the increased activity of Russian submarines and cyber attacks as evidence of a heightened threat environment, a situation exacerbated by the conflict in Ukraine. This contrasts with the UK's armed forces, which have seen a significant reduction in personnel since the end of the Cold War. Woodburn acknowledged the appointment of John Healey as Chancellor, a former Defence Secretary who had publicly stated that the allocated funds were insufficient, viewing his understanding of defense requirements as a positive factor.
Prime Minister Andy Burnham has indicated that defense could play a significant role in his plans for economic reindustrialization, creating skilled jobs. Defence Secretary Wes Streeting echoed this, positioning defense as a driver of prosperity. Woodburn aims to highlight the broader industrial and employment benefits of defense spending, emphasizing its value. He also articulated his company's mission as protecting those who protect the nation, with the ultimate goal of deterring war by ensuring forces have superior equipment.