The UK and France have reaffirmed their commitment to European security and support for Ukraine as senior military leaders from both nations convened in London for high-level defence talks.
The UK-France All Military Chiefs meeting, now in its third year, comes at a critical moment for European defence, with both nations leading efforts to galvanise support for Ukraine and bolster regional security. The discussions also mark a strengthening of the historic 2010 Lancaster House Agreement, set for renewal in 2025, to enhance Anglo-French defence collaboration.
Forging a stronger UK-France Defence Partnership
The meeting brought together the heads of the British and French defence forces, including chiefs of the Army, Navy, and Air Force, to discuss:
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Enhancing UK-French military cooperation and strengthening joint operational planning.
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Deepening security guarantees for Ukraine, as part of a broader Coalition of the Willing initiative.
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Bolstering European security through closer UK-French collaboration.
Admiral Sir Tony Radakin, Chief of the Defence Staff, emphasised the importance of the meeting: “At this pivotal time for European security, the third meeting of the British and French Chiefs of Staff is a sign of reassurance and commitment. Europe’s two leading nuclear powers are forging a stronger and deeper partnership to enhance the continent’s security.”
He also highlighted the political leadership of Prime Minister Keir Starmer and President Emmanuel Macron, reinforcing the military cooperation that underpins their strategic vision.
Strengthening UK-France Military Integration
The talks follow a series of high-level engagements between London and Paris, including meetings between the UK Prime Minister and President Macron, as well as joint operational planning sessions at the UK’s Permanent Joint Headquarters (PJHQ) in Northwood.
The discussions will also lay the groundwork for the upcoming UK-France Summit in 2025, which aims to enhance the Lancaster House Treaties—the cornerstone of UK-French military interoperability. This renewed agreement will expand the Combined Joint Expeditionary Force (CJEF), ensuring the two nations maintain unparalleled operational readiness as key European allies.
As the UK government continues its Plan for Change, defence remains at the heart of its priorities, ensuring national security, economic stability, and international leadership in an era of evolving global threats.
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