The United Kingdom is currently in the process of updating a significant national strategy to ready the entire country, including the armed forces, police, healthcare sector, and industry, for a potential shift to wartime operations. Air Chief Marshal Sir Richard Knighton disclosed that the revised “Government War Book” will necessitate a fresh approach to resilience, drawing from Cold War practices and adapting them to modern society and infrastructure.
During the London Defence Conference, Knighton highlighted that the UK’s warning of potential actions against vessels linked to Russia’s “shadow fleet” has already had an impact, prompting Moscow to either escort or redirect these tankers away from UK waters. Despite no boarding operations conducted yet, the mere threat has influenced Moscow’s actions. Knighton emphasized the military’s readiness for potential boarding operations.
One of the major challenges faced by the military is the need to reinstate the Royal Navy, British Army, and Royal Air Force to a state of readiness after years of underinvestment following the Cold War. Prime Minister Keir Starmer and Defence Secretary John Healey have pledged to increase defense spending to 3.5% of GDP, up from just over 2%, by 2035. However, the awaited 10-year Defense Investment Plan outlining future weapons and capabilities is yet to be released, causing uncertainty in the defense industry.
Knighton suggested that the delay in the plan’s release may stem from the Ministry of Defence’s push for quicker access to additional Treasury funding. He emphasized the importance of having a fully funded and feasible plan, even if it takes longer to finalize. The effort to revive the government’s war book, spearheaded by the Cabinet Office, aims to modernize the comprehensive set of plans that were initially created during the First World War.
Knighton stressed the importance of preparing critical infrastructure, such as energy, water, and transport systems, against both natural disasters and potential hostile actions as part of NATO’s conflict transition concept. He highlighted the necessity for future infrastructure enhancements to consider threats beyond traditional warfare, requiring a shift in priorities and long-term planning across government sectors. The stability that Britain has enjoyed over the past three decades is facing growing challenges, underscoring the need to increase public awareness about potential threats and the role civilians can play in strengthening national resilience and supporting the armed forces.
