Defence plan will ensure UK is ready for war, minister says

The UK government has unveiled a major defence overhaul to prepare for a “new era of threats” from powers like Russia and China. Backed by a Strategic Defence Review, the plan includes building 12 nuclear submarines, six munitions factories, expanding the Army, and embracing technologies like AI, drones, and lasers. Defence Secretary John Healey said the military must become “10 times more lethal,” as the UK faces growing cyberattacks, nuclear threats, and challenges from Russia, China, Iran, and North Korea, the BBC has reported. Critics argue the plan is underfunded, with concerns over how it will be paid for and whether the goals are achievable.