UK government press releases and defense ministry announcements

NATO Urges UK to Boost Air and Missile Defense Spending to 3-4% of GDP Amid 15-Year Threat

Jan 5, 2025, 08:08 AM

NATO is set to urge the United Kingdom to significantly increase its spending on air and missile defense systems, as a Sunday Times investigation has revealed that Britain is increasingly vulnerable to ballistic missile attacks. The investigation highlights that within 15 years, the UK could be targeted by ballistic missiles from anywhere in the world. This call for increased spending comes amid concerns over the UK's current defense allocations, which stand at 2.3% of GDP, well below the 3% to 5% that NATO members are being encouraged to consider. Former Labour leader Neil Kinnock has suggested that spending 2.5% of GDP on defense will not be enough, advocating for a target of 3-4% due to the perilous security situation. The push for higher defense budgets is part of a broader trend across Europe, where nations are boosting their defense spending in response to reduced U.S. support and escalating global threats. The European Union is planning a €500 billion fund to be backed by sovereign bonds and more defense-focused budget allocations, while NATO is contemplating raising its spending targets from 2% to 3% of GDP.