Keir Starmer Unveils Major Defence Review Led by Former NATO Chief George Robertson
Prime Minister Keir Starmer has announced a major review of Britain’s military strategy, appointing former NATO leader George Robertson to lead the effort. This announcement, one of Starmer’s first significant acts since taking office on 5th July, aims to tackle the threats posed by China, Iran, Russia, and North Korea—referred to by Robertson as the “deadly quartet.”
Starmer, heading the centre-left Labour Party, has committed to halting the decline in the UK’s military capabilities seen over 14 years of Conservative rule. He plans to responsibly increase defence spending to 2.5% of GDP from the current 2.3%, although no specific deadline has been set. This increase is intended to reinforce Britain’s “hollowed-out armed forces.”
The Ministry of Defence has outlined that the review will focus on strengthening homeland security, supporting Ukraine in its conflict with Russia, and modernising Britain’s nuclear arsenal. The strategic review, expected to report in the first half of 2025, will shape the country’s defence policy for the next decade.
George Robertson, who served as NATO Secretary-General from 1999 to 2003 and as British Defence Secretary, will be assisted by Fiona Hill, a former White House adviser, and General Richard Barrons, a former director of operations for the UK armed forces. Robertson has emphasised the increasing cooperation between Russia, Iran, North Korea, and China as a significant threat.
While the UK has typically referred to China as a “strategic challenge” rather than a direct threat, the stance within NATO has hardened. Recently, the 32-nation alliance described China as a “decisive enabler” of Russia’s war against Ukraine at a summit in Washington. Although China denies providing military aid to Russia, it maintains strong trade relations with its northern neighbour.
Defence Secretary John Healey highlighted the need to adapt to a more volatile world and the changing nature of warfare. He stressed the importance of ensuring the armed forces are better prepared, more integrated, and more innovative in response to these evolving threats.
This comprehensive review marks a crucial step in redefining the UK’s military strategy, with an emphasis on readiness and modernisation to meet contemporary global challenges.
