The United Kingdom is advised to enhance its military presence in the Arctic and High North as part of an upcoming defense review. This recommendation comes in response to increased competition as melting sea ice allows for greater access to these regions.
The defense review is expected to advocate substantial investment in drones and advanced technologies, reflecting a new era of state conflict, as revealed by sources acquainted with the document. The review will emphasize a “NATO first” defense strategy, focusing on security within the Euro-Atlantic area and upholding commitments to the alliance.
John Healey, the Defense Secretary, has criticized the previous Conservative government’s focus on the Indo-Pacific in its defense and foreign policy. The review, led by an independent team under former NATO secretary-general Lord George Robertson, examines the threats facing Britain, the necessary capabilities, and the condition of the armed forces.
The review’s development has been influenced by former US President Donald Trump’s changes in security policy, including a reduction in American military resources in Europe. Disputes about the review’s publication timing have occurred, with its release promised for the first half of 2025.
Focusing on the Atlantic region, the review will advise the UK to increase military activity in the High North, including the Arctic. The melting ice has opened new shipping routes, making the region’s abundant resources more accessible, and has intensified competition among major powers like the US, Russia, China, and northern European nations.
The UK has already expressed concerns about Russia’s military activities in the region, and Healey has visited Norway to discuss enhancing security. Former President Trump pressured Denmark regarding the Arctic island of Greenland, leading to a diplomatic dispute.
The UK Ministry of Defence recently deployed snowmobiles to the Arctic Circle, a move signaling its strategic direction, according to industry experts. Ed Arnold, a senior research fellow in European security, noted the UK’s obligation to demonstrate greater military presence in the High North to reassure Nordic allies concerned about US strategies.
The expansion of UK military assets in the High North could build on former Conservative initiatives, such as the Arctic strategy introduced by past Defense Secretary Ben Wallace. The Royal Navy is expected to receive increased investment, as Eastern European NATO nations prioritize RAF and Navy capabilities over land support.
The review is anticipated to confirm continued investment in the Global Combat Air Programme, a collaborative stealth fighter jet project with Italy and Japan. While Sir Keir Starmer has pledged to raise defense spending from 2.3% to 2.5% of GDP by 2027, this falls short of military leaders’ desired 2.65%, presenting future budget challenges.
Balancing investment between traditional military platforms and new technologies, like unmanned systems, is a focus of the review. It also advocates enhancing cadet forces, reserves, and veteran engagement in potential conflicts.
Ministers propose a “whole-of-society” approach, reflecting on democratic values and national resilience in education. The review will explore the organization of the UK’s cyber personnel across various government agencies.
Some defense officials aim to publish the review before an upcoming UK-EU defense agreement summit, while others prefer aligning it with the Treasury’s spending review and a broader security strategy.
The Ministry of Defence has refrained from commenting on speculation but emphasized the review’s purpose to address 21st-century challenges and opportunities. The review will be published as soon as possible, with additional reporting by Helen Warrell.
