UK running out of time to boost defense as investment plan stalls, military chief warns
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- Richard Knighton warned that Russia is raising the stakes and Britain must increase defence spending faster.
- John Healey said Prime Minister Keir Starmer aims to publish the Defence Investment Plan before the July 7 NATO summit.
- Defence Investment Plan faces a £28 billion ($38 billion) funding shortfall over four years, causing delays.
- Keir Starmer has pledged to lift defence spending to 3% of GDP, but critics say he has not delivered.
- George Robertson said there is a gap between Starmer’s rhetoric and action, claiming the PM is unwilling to invest enough.
Why it matters: The British armed forces risk reduced war‑fighting readiness unless the £28 billion shortfall is covered, while delayed spending could erode NATO credibility ahead of the July 7 summit.
