The UK announces the construction of new nuclear submarines. Up to 12 new nuclear-powered attack submarines will be built as the government reveals its strategic defence review. The 130-page document concludes the UK must prepare for conflict in Europe or the Atlantic and move to “war-fighting readiness” to counter Russian aggression. Sir Keir Starmer, who will present the review, faces criticism as it does not promise an immediate increase in British military size.
Defence Secretary John Healey mentioned a “recruitment and retention crisis” in the armed forces over the past 15 years, but recruitment drive plans will be delayed until after the next election. The review is a “message to Moscow” and is the UK’s response to a “world of growing threats.”
Starmer is anticipated to confirm approximately £15bn in investment in the UK’s nuclear warhead programme. Other announcements include building up to 7,000 long-range weapons, such as missiles or drones, and a £1.5bn investment to construct six new factories.
The Prime Minister will assert the government’s strong support for the military, emphasising the need for equipped armed forces and opportunities for future engineers, shipbuilders, and technicians. The Ministry of Defence expects the submarine construction to support 30,000 jobs through the 2030s and create 30,000 apprenticeships and 14,000 graduate roles over the next decade. “With new state-of-the-art submarines patrolling international waters and our own nuclear warhead programme on British shores, we are making Britain secure at home and strong abroad,” Healey stated. The review, led by former Labour Defence Secretary Lord Robertson, will make 62 recommendations in total.
