Government must reassess our defence policy ambitions

A MORE efficient use of existing defence resources cannot enable the UK to deliver on its policy of operating a submarine-based nuclear deterrent, making a major contribution to the defence of Nato territory, operating effectively alongside US forces from the outset of a major operation, and ability to intervene in a range of possible conflicts across the world [“Former military chief warns defence plans unaffordable,” June 26]. Moreover, the UK’s decision to leave the EU will make participation in co-operative European projects harder, will likely increase our defence costs, and will certainly constrain GDP growth in the immediate future. Two per cent of GDP for defence with the UK outside the EU will yield less money than the same percentage had the UK stayed.

Thus, in its Modernising Defence Programme the Government will need to adjust three elements — cutting back on policy ambitions and roles for British forces; making more funding available; and organisational and process changes to reduce the costs of delivering capabilities. It will place too much emphasis on the latter if past reviews are any guide. Then many savings will be undeliverable, costs will keep rising and a further review will be needed in the early 2020s.

Professor Trevor Taylor

Royal United Services Institute