Low-observable air-launched cruise missile, UK/France MBDA
The UK has reaffirmed its unwavering support for Ukraine on Independence Day as Prime Minister Burnham visits Kyiv. He is chairing the coalition of the willing and is set to accept an award for Britain’s backing. MBDA will declassify information on UK missile components, enabling local Ukrainian assembly of Scalp missiles. Moscow warns of consequences as diplomacy with the UK continues.
The UK is coordinating with Ukraine and France to declassify information on Storm Shadow/Scalp missiles, enabling Ukraine to assemble its own long-range missiles and bolster defense amid ongoing conflict. Burnham is visiting Kyiv to press allies and reassure support, with broader European efforts to deter Russian aggression intensifying.
The Defence Investment Plan has been refreshed to prioritise frontline equipment, drones and autonomous tech. Dan Jarvis has secured additional funding, while resignations over funding highlighted political tensions. The plan aims to modernise the UK’s armed forces and deter evolving threats, with a focus on the High North and underwater infrastructure.
The Defence Investment Plan (DIP) has been published, detailing a 2.7% of GDP defence spend by 2029 with a 3% target in the next Parliament. The plan shifts funding away from road and energy projects to weapons, drones, and naval capabilities, while promising efficiencies and a long-term upgrade in nuclear deterrence. Several ministers have resigned over the funding levels amid a controversial rollout that may be revisited by a new prime minister.
The UK is coordinating with European allies at the Ankara NATO summit to push a deep precision strike programme and boost defence funding. Keir Starmer is leading discussions, while Trump presses allies on spending. Ukraine seeks air defences amid a shifting security landscape.