Britain unveils defense overhaul to counter 'pressing' threat
The British government has unveiled its defense strategy for the next decade.
Prime Minister Keir Starmer's government has been reviewing the country's defense strategy since he took office in July 2024.
The government on Monday set out a series of measures to counter what it calls an "immediate and pressing threat" from Russia.
These include investing 15 billion pounds, or about 20 billion dollars, in the sovereign warhead program and building up to 12 nuclear-powered attack submarines.
The government also plans to create a hybrid Navy that employs warships, submarines and autonomous vessels, as well as to increase the number of full-time troops.
Starmer said, "We face war in Europe, new nuclear risks, daily cyber-attacks, growing Russian aggression in our waters, menacing our skies." He said the most effective way to deter the threats is to show that Britain is "ready to deliver peace through strength."
According to the latest announcement, the government's goal of spending three percent of the GDP on defense in the 2030s will be met, if "economic and fiscal conditions allow." Opposition parties criticized the government, saying it's unclear how the programs would be financed.
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