**U.K. Prime Minister Keir Starmer Announces Major Defense Spending Increase Amid European Tensions**

In a significant policy shift, British Prime Minister Keir Starmer unveiled a proposal for the largest rise in defense spending since the Cold War. The new 2025 Strategic Defence Review signals a move towards "war-fighting readiness," positioning the U.K. for potential conflict in Europe. Starmer's announcement emphasized the urgent need to counter the threat posed by Russia, describing the current security climate as more severe and unpredictable than in decades.

As part of this ambitious plan, the U.K. aims to grow defense spending from 2.3% of GDP to 2.5% by 2027, with a target of reaching 3% in the subsequent parliamentary term. This effort includes a massive investment of approximately £68 billion ($92 billion) for modernizing the military, enhancing nuclear forces, upgrading technology, and implementing lessons learned from the ongoing war in Ukraine, such as advancements in drone and digital warfare.

The defense strategy also proposes the development of a "hybrid navy," incorporating up to a dozen new nuclear attack submarines, advanced warships, upgraded aircraft carriers, and autonomous patrol ships. Additionally, the Royal Air Force is set to begin developing a "sixth-generation" crewed fighter jet that can operate in conjunction with drones, echoing the concept of the F-47 recently announced by the Trump administration.

Comparing the U.K.'s plans with its NATO allies, Germany and Poland are undergoing parallel transformations in their military strategies. Poland has escalated its defense budget from 2.7% to an anticipated 4.7% of GDP by 2025, while Germany has raised its military spending from 1.38% to 2% of GDP by 2024, with further increases projected. German Defense Minister Boris Pistorius highlighted the necessity for Europe to be ready for war by 2029 to counter Vladimir Putin's ambitions.

The review recognizes the reduction in the British Army's size, currently standing at just over 70,000 combat-ready soldiers. The proposal includes a moderate increase in active-duty troops complemented by a stronger Reserve force. This approach is seen as a technological refresh rather than a large-scale expansion of personnel or equipment. Six new factories will be established to maintain a continuous supply line for munitions, ensuring readiness at all times.

The broader strategy also aims to invigorate the U.K.'s defense industry by forging industry partnerships and overhauling procurement processes, which Prime Minister Starmer refers to as a "defense dividend." Experts believe this holistic view of defense could rejuvenate the industry, which has seen decades of decline.

Starmer's plan, which has already garnered backing from his Labour Party government, is expected to pass in Parliament, ensuring a robust enhancement of the U.K.'s defense capabilities in the face of mounting European security concerns.