...as report lays bare 20% reduction in combat power
BRITAIN’s combat power has been slashed significantly over the past eight years, a Government report has revealed.
Ministry of Defence figures show that deep annual cuts since 2016 have had an impact on almost every part of the Armed Forces. In all, the amount of combat equipment is down by more than 20 per cent, with significant falls in the number of tanks, helicopters, combat jets and ships.
More than 200 Scimitar light tanks – used in Iraq and Afghanistan – have been axed and are yet to be replaced. Many classes of aircraft have also been retired, including the Tornado, which saw action in both Gulf Wars.
The fifth-generation F-35B Lightning multi-role fighter jet is still coming into service but the exact numbers remain unconfirmed. The original plan was for 138 to be delivered to the RAF and the Royal Navy – but orders for only 74 have been signed.
The revelations follow the Government’s decision not to allocate any extra cash for defence in last week’s Budget, despite fears of a possible war with Russia.
Lord West of Spithead, a former Royal Navy Admiral, said: ‘I am absolutely amazed the Government have not increased defence spending in this Budget.’ Colonel
Richard Kemp, who commanded troops in Iraq and Afghanistan warned: ‘Our ability to conduct overseas operations is at risk.’
An MoD spokesman said: ‘Our Armed Forces stand ready to protect and defend the UK, and we continue to meet all operational commitments. We have significantly increased spending on equipment over the next decade.’