Stronger, Safer, Smarter: UK Commits to New Era of National Security

Biggest sustained investment since the Cold War will protect the UK, support jobs, and cement global leadership.

In a landmark announcement, the Prime Minister has pledged the UK’s largest sustained increase in defense spending since the Cold War, a bold move to meet the rising tide of global instability and protect British interests at home and abroad.

From April 2027, defense spending will rise to 2.5% of GDP, with a longer-term ambition to reach 3% in the next Parliament as conditions allow. The announcement, made just one day after the third anniversary of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, signals a decisive shift toward long-term national security and global leadership.

“We face a generational challenge, and we are delivering a generational response,” said the Prime Minister. “Our people should never have to bear the cost of threats we can prevent.”

This investment will not only strengthen the UK’s defense but drive economic growth. With over 430,000 jobs already supported by defense spending, and 68% of contracts awarded outside London and the Southeast, the funding will supercharge regional economies and back innovation in areas like AI, quantum, and space.

The Prime Minister also reaffirmed the UK’s commitment to Ukraine and to European security in calls with world leaders, emphasizing that in today’s interconnected world, national security is economic security.

As the world grows more complex, the UK is stepping forward, stronger, safer, and ready to lead.