Matthew Savill Reacts to the Defence Investment Plan

'The Defence Investment Plan offers a sugary hit of headline-grabbing announcements that will drive much of the initial discussion. But on first inspection, there will inevitably be dissatisfaction with many of the answers it provides.'

'Most politically challenging, while the Government has reaffirmed its commitment to the NATO target of 3.5% of GDP by 2035, there is no detail on how this will be achieved, only a statement on reaching 3% at some point in the next Parliament. Regardless of how increased investment is allocated, it will be hard for the UK to demonstrate leadership in Europe and satisfy the US if no one believes it will be as good as its word.'

'Second, considerable emphasis is placed on autonomy and uncrewed systems to compensate for the limited mass the UK's Armed Forces can currently bring to bear. This gives a clear prioritisation of effort but puts pressure on a mixture of experimental technology and evolving concepts – a bold bet on technological solutions with no margin for error if procurement is not speedy and implementation rapid.'

'Finally, the increase in resource spending is welcome – indeed necessary – to sustain training, operations, and increased production capacity and investment in stockpiles. But the overall settlement is relatively modest when set over four years against the enormous shopping list of investments needed to rebuild the Armed Forces, especially readiness. In announcing the DIP, the Government may find it has closed off some debates only to open new ones for the next Prime Minister to resolve.'

Matthew Savill, Director of Military Sciences, RUSI