Technology

UK invests £5 billion in military drones and cyber tech to counter escalating Russian threats

Friday, 6 June 2025 12:13AM UTC

Britain announces a £5 billion push into drone and laser technology amid concerns over adapting to modern warfare, aiming to modernise its armed forces and reinforce NATO commitments, with a focus on innovation and preparedness against emerging threats.

Britain's Defence Secretary, John Healey, has unveiled an ambitious plan for the UK's armed forces that prioritises technological advancement in response to escalating global threats, particularly from Russia. Announced during a meeting with NATO defence ministers in Brussels, the strategy includes a significant £5 billion investment in drones and laser technology. Healey stated, “We will invest in technology to give our troops the edge in the battlefields of the future, transforming our Armed Forces and boosting our warfighting readiness. This will increase our lethality, provide a powerful deterrent to our adversaries, and put the UK at the leading edge of innovation in NATO.”

The impetus for this expansive investment comes in the wake of the pivotal role drones played in the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, particularly in disrupting Russian air capabilities. Indeed, reports indicate that Ukrainian forces successfully utilised drones to target and destroy over 40 Russian bombers in a recent operation, underscoring the transformative power of unmanned technologies in contemporary warfare. Drones, ranging significantly in size, not only deliver explosive payloads but also perform vital reconnaissance and logistical functions, thus becoming indispensable assets in military operations.

As part of a broader Strategic Defence Review heralded by Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer, the UK is committed to allocating at least 10% of its defence budget towards the development of drones and cutting-edge military technology. This includes the creation of a "Digital Targeting Web," aimed at enhancing the Army's capability to locate and engage enemy targets rapidly. The government is also launching a procurement programme to stimulate innovation within the defence sector, inviting contributions of ideas for new digital systems, including those powered by artificial intelligence for battlefield decision-making.

While these initiatives signal a commitment to modernising the UK's defence posture, concerns persist about the Ministry of Defence’s ability to adapt rapidly to emerging technologies. Despite increased funding and procurement initiatives, experts have pointed to a longstanding risk-averse culture within the MoD, which historically hampers the adoption of innovative solutions. Critics advocate for a more proactive approach in integrating tools such as FPV drones and uncrewed vessels into training and operational protocols, arguing that the UK risks lagging in military readiness without significant cultural reform within military structures.

In the wake of these advancements, the UK also aims to expand its submarine fleet under the AUKUS alliance, signalling a commitment to not only modernise existing capabilities but to prepare for future challenges. The review outlines plans for twelve nuclear-powered submarines and emphasizes a shift in focus towards the North Atlantic, reflecting historical defence priorities. This comprehensive strategy is projected to reach 2.5% of GDP by 2027, escalating to 3% in the years thereafter, thereby aligning the UK’s defence spending with NATO’s expectations and reaffirming its role within the alliance.

Moreover, there is a growing consensus among military analysts that the UK must navigate not only the threats posed by state actors like Russia but also adapt to an evolving landscape of cyber warfare and technological advancement. With plans to establish a new Cyber and Electromagnetic Command, the UK intends to bolster its cyber capabilities as part of its larger defence ecosystem.

As the government champions its vision for a modern, technologically advanced military, the success of these initiatives will depend heavily on overcoming institutional inertia and ensuring that the armed forces can adapt rapidly to both current and emerging threats. The stakes are clear: in a world where the balance of power is shifting dramatically, the UK’s investment and innovation in defence must keep pace with evolving global challenges.

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Source: Noah Wire Services

More on this

https://www.express.co.uk/news/politics/2064897/british-armed-forces-spend-billions - Please view link - unable to able to access data
https://www.reuters.com/business/aerospace-defense/uk-expand-submarine-fleet-defence-review-calls-warfighting-readiness-2025-06-01/ - The UK government has unveiled a transformative defence strategy aimed at addressing emerging threats from Russia, nuclear risks, and cyber-attacks by investing in modern technologies like drones and digital warfare. Prime Minister Keir Starmer announced the largest sustained boost in defence spending since the Cold War, pledging to increase it to 2.5% of GDP by 2027 and aiming for 3% in the next parliament. The strategy prioritises technological capabilities over troop numbers and includes plans to expand the fleet of nuclear-powered attack submarines, build at least six new munitions plants, procure 7,000 long-range weapons, and enhance cyber capabilities through a new Cyber and Electromagnetic Command. Despite the army's historically small size of 70,860 full-time trained soldiers, the government emphasized readiness and deterrence. The Strategic Defence Review, developed with experts like former NATO chief George Robertson and ex-White House adviser Fiona Hill, recommends prioritizing personnel growth post-2029 depending on funding. Critics, including the opposition Conservatives, questioned the financial viability of the plan. Defence Secretary John Healey emphasized adapting to modern warfare trends, citing lessons from Ukraine. The announcement boosted shares in defence firms such as BAE Systems and Rolls Royce. The policy supports NATO and aims to boost the UK’s economy and job market.
https://www.apnews.com/article/347608084fa80b10aa212a7f006bd053 - Prime Minister Keir Starmer announced a significant boost to the United Kingdom’s defense capabilities, marking the biggest changes since the Cold War. In response to ongoing threats from Russia and global instability, including the reelection of U.S. President Donald Trump, the initiative includes building up to 12 nuclear-powered submarines through the AUKUS alliance, expanding munitions factories, investing in long-range weapons, drones, and a 'hybrid Navy,' and creating a UK cyber command. A new home guard is also planned to protect critical infrastructure. The review, led by George Robertson, includes 62 recommendations that the government will adopt, focusing on land, air, sea, and cyber threats. The defense budget aims to reach 2.5% of GDP by 2027 and potentially 3% by 2034, though funding remains uncertain. The initiative aims to reassure NATO allies and respond to U.S. criticism of European defense spending while signaling a commitment to collective security. Despite criticisms regarding the lack of detailed funding plans, the strategy is intended to transform Britain into a modern defense-ready nation.
https://www.ft.com/content/a087b0ac-416d-47a4-908d-ea3ad36f060b - The article, written by a Labour MP and defence committee member, highlights the UK Ministry of Defence's (MoD) failure to adopt modern technologies for its own military despite heavy investment in advanced systems for allies like Ukraine. British forces still train with outdated methods, lacking exposure to vital new tools such as FPV drones and uncrewed surface vessels that have transformed recent conflicts. While funding and procurement inefficiencies are commonly blamed, the core issue is identified as the MoD's risk-averse culture and bureaucratic obstacles that delay or prevent the official adoption of new technologies. Until a technology is officially recognized as a requirement, it is neither integrated into training nor doctrine, thereby alienating potential innovators and private investors. Although positive steps are being taken—including increased acquisitions, potential procurement reforms, and strengthened EU partnerships—the need for deep cultural change remains. The author urges the MoD to prioritize rapid adoption and adaptation, allowing room for experimentation and failure, and to support service members’ modernization initiatives. Without tackling the institutional resistance to innovation, the UK risks falling behind in military readiness and technological advancement.
https://www.ft.com/content/db21c372-0dbb-45c7-992b-109658d87d53 - The UK's 2025 Strategic Defence Review outlines a major shift in military priorities towards 'warfighting readiness' amid growing threats from Russia and China. The Royal Navy is the primary beneficiary, with plans to expand its fleet of nuclear-powered attack submarines from seven to twelve under the Aukus partnership by the late 2030s, marking nearly 50% of projected weapons spending. The navy's focus will revert to North Atlantic defense, echoing Cold War priorities. The Army's size will remain at 73,000 regular troops, but aims to boost effectiveness through technology, including a £1bn investment in AI-driven battlefield targeting systems. The review hints at potential tactical nuclear capabilities, though without confirming plans. It also promises closer collaboration with industry, a reform of procurement processes, and investments in advanced manufacturing, drones, and long-range weapons. Major defense contractors such as BAE Systems, Rolls-Royce, and Lockheed Martin stand to benefit significantly. Despite being a 10-year plan, past patterns suggest it may be reviewed sooner due to shifting geopolitical realities. The primary focus has shifted from the Indo-Pacific to the North Atlantic, with Russia identified as the most pressing threat.
https://www.reuters.com/business/aerospace-defense/britain-pledges-deliver-100000-drones-ukraine-by-april-2026-2025-06-03/ - Britain has committed to delivering 100,000 drones to Ukraine by the end of its financial year in April 2026, representing a tenfold increase in support. This pledge is part of a larger £4.5 billion military aid package aimed at strengthening Ukraine's defense amid ongoing conflict with Russia. The £350 million drone initiative underscores the transformative impact drone technology has had on modern warfare, as observed during Ukraine’s more than three-year defense against the Russian invasion. Additionally, Britain has completed the delivery of 140,000 artillery shells to Ukraine since January 2025 and will allocate a further £247 million this year for training Ukrainian soldiers. Defence Secretary John Healey is expected to formally announce these commitments at the Ukraine Defence Contact Group meeting in Brussels, co-hosted with Germany. The move aligns with a newly endorsed Strategic Defence Review urging a more technologically advanced and lethal military to counter emerging global threats.
https://www.apnews.com/article/29145af643145116680504d3e787d450 - The UK government, under the Labour party, has announced its largest defense spending increase since the Cold War, aiming to counter perceived threats from Russia and respond to a shifting global security environment. Defense Secretary John Healey stated the country's military transformation would be supported by increasing defense spending to 2.5% of national income by 2027, amounting to an additional £13 billion ($17 billion) annually, with a goal of reaching 3% in the early 2030s. The upcoming strategic defense review, led by Lord George Robertson, is expected to be the most significant since the early 1990s, addressing military and cyber threats. Healey highlighted ongoing daily cyberattacks from Russia and revealed plans to create a cyber command. He also pledged £6 billion over five years toward UK munitions production, including up to 7,000 long-range missiles. The opposition Conservative Party expressed skepticism about the Treasury's commitment to funding and urged more immediate action. This defense boost is partly a response to Russia's 2022 invasion of Ukraine and shifting U.S. policies under Donald Trump, who has pressured NATO allies to increase military spending.

Noah Fact Check Pro

The draft above was created using the information available at the time the story first emerged. We’ve since applied our fact-checking process to the final narrative, based on the criteria listed below. The results are intended to help you assess the credibility of the piece and highlight any areas that may warrant further investigation.

Freshness check

Score: 8

Notes: The narrative presents recent developments, including Defence Secretary John Healey's announcement of a £5 billion investment in drones and laser technology, aligning with the UK's Strategic Defence Review. The earliest known publication date of similar content is 4 days ago, indicating high freshness. The report is based on a press release, which typically warrants a high freshness score. No discrepancies in figures, dates, or quotes were found. The narrative includes updated data but recycles older material, which may justify a higher freshness score but should still be flagged.

Quotes check

Score: 9

Notes: The direct quote from Defence Secretary John Healey, “We will invest in technology to give our troops the edge in the battlefields of the future, transforming our Armed Forces and boosting our warfighting readiness,” appears to be original, with no identical matches found online. This suggests potentially original or exclusive content.

Source reliability

Score: 7

Notes: The narrative originates from the Express, a UK-based tabloid newspaper. While it is a reputable organisation, its content is often sensationalised, which may affect reliability. The report is based on a press release, which typically warrants a high reliability score.

Plausability check

Score: 8

Notes: The claims about the UK's £5 billion investment in drones and laser technology, as well as the expansion of the submarine fleet under the AUKUS alliance, are plausible and align with recent strategic defence reviews. The narrative lacks supporting detail from other reputable outlets, which is a concern. The tone and language are consistent with official communications, and there are no excessive or off-topic details.

Overall assessment

Verdict (FAIL, OPEN, PASS): OPEN

Confidence (LOW, MEDIUM, HIGH): MEDIUM

Summary: The narrative presents recent developments in the UK's defence strategy, including significant investments in military technology and expansion of the submarine fleet. While the content is fresh and includes potentially original quotes, the reliance on a press release from a tabloid source raises concerns about reliability. The lack of supporting details from other reputable outlets further diminishes confidence in the narrative's accuracy.

UK defence strategy
Military technology
Drones and cyber warfare