According to Defense Secretary John Healey, the United Kingdom Government recently announced a £2 billion investment to strengthen military capabilities through the use of attack and spy drones, with the aim of making the country’s army “10 times more lethal.”
The move follows the successful use of drones in the conflict in Ukraine that has changed the landscape of modern warfare, including a daring attack on a Russian air base far behind the front lines.
The new plan also includes the development of nuclear-powered submarines, an upgrade of missile defense systems, and exploring the possibility of re-introducing air-launched nuclear weapons with the United States.
Prime Minister Keir Starmer described the plan as an effort to ensure the United Kingdom is “ready for any threat,” with defense given priority over other civil services.
However, critics have raised concerns that the use of drones could lower the threshold for the use of force and thus increase the risk of conflict.
In the context of NATO urging member states to increase defense spending and the United States' reduced focus on Europe, the United Kingdom's large investment reflects preparations for rising global tensions and a new era of warfare driven by drone technology.
