The UK government has announced the largest sustained increase in defence spending since the Cold War, with a commitment to raise spending to 2.5% of GDP from April 2027 and an ambition to reach 3% in the next parliament. This historic investment will not only bolster national security but also drive growth across the UK defence supply chain, creating thousands of high-skilled jobs and supporting innovation in emerging technologies.
Strategic investment in the defence industry
Prime Minister Keir Starmer emphasized that the defence sector is critical to both national security and economic growth, stating: “By spending more on defence, we will deliver the stability that underpins economic growth, unlocking prosperity through new jobs, skills, and opportunities across the country.”
The announcement follows the third anniversary of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, reinforcing the UK’s commitment to strengthening its defence capabilities amid growing global instability.
Impact on the UK Defence Supply Chain
With £7.1Bn invested in the South East, £6.9bn in the South West, and billions more across the UK, the increase in spending will sustain and expand key defence industry sectors, including:
Combat air and missile systems
Shipbuilding and nuclear submarines
AI, cyber, quantum, and space technologies
Autonomous systems and advanced manufacturing
The upcoming Defence Industrial Strategy will focus on accelerating R&D, innovation, and advanced manufacturing, ensuring the UK remains a global leader in high-tech defence capabilities.
The expansion of defence spending will directly benefit UK industry, supporting over 430,000 jobs nationwide. Notably, 68% of UK defence contracts already go to businesses outside London and the South East, with investments strengthening regional economies from Scotland to the North West.
Funding and future commitments
The increased defence spending will be funded through a reduction in Overseas Development Assistance (ODA), reallocating resources to strengthen national security. The government remains committed to fiscal responsibility, ensuring long-term economic stability while addressing modern security threats.
With a single national security strategy set to be unveiled before the NATO Summit in June, this marks a pivotal moment for the UK defence industry and its supply chain, ensuring resilience, security, and economic growth for the decades ahead.
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Post written by: Vicky Maggiani
Vicky has worked in media for over 25 years and has a wealth of experience in editing and creating copy for a variety of sectors.
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