British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak has announced plans to increase defence spending to 2.5 percent of the UK’s GDP by 2030, emphasizing the need for the country’s arms industry to be prepared for heightened global threats.
Teaming up with NATO leader Jens Stoltenberg, Sunak revealed a commitment to inject an extra 75 billion pounds ($93bn) over six years into the production of munitions and drones, positioning the UK as the second-largest defence spender in NATO.
He highlighted the importance of having sufficient munitions stockpiles and the capability to replenish them swiftly, drawing lessons from the conflict in Ukraine.
Amidst a world facing increased dangers, Sunak stressed the urgency for the UK to bolster its defence to safeguard its nation, interests, and values.
His announcement followed a recent pledge to provide Ukraine with arms valued at 500 million pounds ($622m), including missiles, armoured vehicles, and ammunition.
Pressure from within his Conservative Party has pushed Sunak to accelerate defence spending, a move that could also thwart potential leadership rivals who prioritize defence issues ahead of an upcoming election.
The commitment would see defence spending rise from around 2.32 percent of GDP to 2.5 percent, with part of the funding coming from a plan to reduce the civil service’s size.
The opposition Labour Party has also expressed intentions to reach the 2.5 percent target when feasible.
Sunak’s pledge could strengthen the UK’s position if Donald Trump secures re-election as US president, given Trump’s criticism of NATO members failing to meet the 2 percent spending threshold.
Original from www.aljazeera.com