Key facts
- Former military leaders are calling for the UK to increase defence spending beyond the stated ambition of 3% of GDP by 2034.
- Sir Keir Starmer has not committed to a specific timeline for reaching the 3% defence spending target.
- Experts propose a more aggressive timeline, including 2.5% by 2027 and 3% by 2029, potentially rising to 3.5% by 2034.
- The Strategic Defence Review includes plans for new submarines, munitions, and cyber capabilities.
- There are discussions about the UK acquiring F-35A fighter jets capable of carrying tactical nuclear weapons.
Former military leaders and defence experts have expressed concerns that the UK's current defence spending trajectory is insufficient to meet NATO's readiness requirements. While the government has an "ambition" to reach 3% of GDP on defence by 2034, critics argue this timeline is too slow and potentially inadequate.
Sir Keir Starmer has not committed to a firm date for achieving this spending target, leading to calls for a more concrete plan. Experts like former head of the British Army, General Lord Richard Dannatt, suggest a faster ramp-up, proposing 2.5% of GDP by 2027, 3% by 2029, and 3.5% by 2034. Hamish de Bretton-Gordon, a retired army colonel, warned that reaching 3% in nearly a decade could be "nine years too late."
The Strategic Defence Review (SDR) outlines commitments including building up to 12 attack submarines, increasing munitions stockpiles, and investing £1 billion in digital and cyber capabilities. However, some former military officials believe the review lacks sufficient provisions for the Army and that the UK should consider reintroducing tactical nuclear weapons, potentially through acquiring US-made F-35A fighter jets capable of carrying such ordnance. This would provide a more credible deterrent against Russia, according to some experts.