To prepare for a world of increasing hostility and complexity, the Prime Minister has recently declared an additional £5 billion investment in defence initiatives over two years. This comes as part of IR23 - the 2023 Integrated Review Refresh - which follows a record-breaking military spending boost totalling £24 billion since 2020. With this substantial funding, Government aims to replenish vital ammunition stocks, modernise its nuclear enterprise, and progress with its ambitious AUKUS submarine programme
It contains new measures to bolster the UK’s economic security, technology capabilities and international development offer in the face of that threat
Prime Minister Rishi Sunak said:
“As the world becomes more volatile and competition between states becomes more intense, the UK must be ready to stand our ground. By investing in our armed forces for the long-term, we will be ready for the challenges of today and of the future. As I will discuss with our American and Australian allies in the US today, the UK will remain a leading contributor to NATO and a reliable international partner, standing up for our values from Ukraine to the South China Seas.
We have seen all too clearly in the last year how global crises impact us at home, with Russia’s appalling invasion of Ukraine driving up energy and food prices. We will fortify our national defences, from economic security to technology supply chains and intelligence expertise, to ensure we are never again vulnerable to the actions of a hostile power.”
Key priority actions on IR23 includes;
- On 13th March, a ground-breaking measure was taken by MI5 as they launched the National Protective Security Authority. Designed to provide organisations across the UK with swift access to robust security council and solutions, this initiative seeks to establish an improved level of protection for businesses everywhere.
- Strengthening our sanctions enforcement through a powerful Economic Deterrence Initiative could prevent human rights abusers and oligarchs from skirting the law. By closing these loopholes, we can better ensure accountability for those who violate international standards of justice.
- By doubling funding for the government-wide China Capabilities programme, we are making essential investments in both Mandarin language training and diplomatic expertise. In addition, a comprehensive College of National Security curriculum will be rolled to ensure our national security capabilities remain top priority across all levels of governance.
- The UK is taking proactive steps to provide a secure environment both domestically and internationally. At the core of this effort are plans for an impressive £1 billion Integrated Security Fund, which seeks to take on global challenges like economic insecurity, cyber risks and terrorism whilst also upholding human rights values. Replacing the Conflict, Stability & Security Fund (CSSF), it marks a milestone in protecting people around our planet from harm.
- The UK is taking steps to create a long-term strategy which will ensure we have access to the critical minerals needed for everyday and future technology. This release reaffirms our commitment towards attaining reliable supplies that provide stability in an increasingly uncertain world.
The UK government has bolstered the BBC World Service with an extra £20m to safeguard its ability to distribute 42 indispensable language services, particularly in areas vulnerable to hostile propaganda. This investment ensures a continued beacon of truth and supports media freedom across nations worldwide.
The UK's dedication to its national security is clear to see and this brings with it an air of reassurance. With these proactive steps taken by MI5, the National Protective Security Authority and other governing bodies, citizens in the UK can rest easy knowing that their security is top priority. This move brings with it unrivalled capabilities across various sectors and countries providing defence for all levels of governance. The “powers that be” have also recognised the need for economic stability to ensure a secure future, launching sanctions enforcement and investing funding into the BBC World Service to distribute critical language services throughout the world. To keep up with further developments in the Defence Industry, follow our page > INNOVATE DEFENCE
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