UK Launches Comprehensive Defence Review

Prime Minister Keir Starmer has launched a comprehensive 'root and branch' Strategic Defence Review to ensure the UK's security and bolster its armed forces amid increasing global threats. The review, set to be completed by the first half of 2025, will be overseen by Defence Secretary John Healey and led by former NATO Secretary General Lord Robertson, alongside foreign policy expert Dr. Fiona Hill and General Sir Richard Barrons. This initiative aims to address the current state of the UK's armed forces, modernize and maintain the nuclear deterrent, and support Ukraine against Russian aggression. The review will invite input from a broad spectrum of stakeholders, including military personnel, veterans, MPs, the defence industry, and international allies. Starmer reiterated a commitment to spend 2.5% of GDP on defence, following his reaffirmation at a recent NATO summit. The move is also seen as a response to previous criticisms about Labour's defence policies and commitment.