• UK to build up to 12 new nuclear-powered attack submarines.
• Defence review emphasizes need for "warfighting readiness" against rising threats.
• £15 billion allocated for new nuclear warhead development.
• Increased defense spending targets of 2.5% of GDP by 2027, aiming for 3% in the long term.
• Defence review led by former NATO chief to reshape UK's military capabilities.

The UK government has announced its plans to expand its nuclear-powered attack submarine fleet as part of a strategic defence review intended to prepare the armed forces for modern warfare. Prime Minister Keir Starmer stated the importance of moving to a state of "warfighting readiness" in light of increasing security threats, particularly from Russia. The review, to be published on Monday, comes amid pressures on European nations to enhance their own security capabilities, a sentiment emphasized by former US President Donald Trump, according to Reuters and Channel News Asia.

Under the new initiative, Britain plans to construct up to 12 next-generation attack submarines, set to replace the current fleet of seven by the late 2030s. These new submarines will feature conventional non-nuclear weapons, with funding for a new nuclear warhead program also being revealed as costing £15 billion. Defence Minister John Healey has stated, “With new state-of-the-art submarines patrolling international waters and our own nuclear warhead programme on British shores, we are making Britain secure at home and strong abroad,” according to BBC and Dawn.

This defense review, which includes recommendations for increasing the UK's defense spending from 2.3% to a targeted 2.5% of GDP by 2027, reflects Starmer's commitment to reversing the military’s post-Cold War decline and ensuring the UK remains a robust military power amidst growing global tensions. His government is also eyeing a potential long-term goal of reaching 3% of GDP for defense expenditures, which has sparked discussions around budget allocations and military restructuring, as noted in reports from Reuters and BBC.

Furthermore, the upcoming review is expected to recommend the establishment of new munitions plants, procurement of long-range weapons, and the formation of a Cyber and Electromagnetic Command to enhance military capabilities. Starmer argues that these investments will not only bolster national security but also create thousands of jobs, as outlined in statements made during visits to military sites and shipbuilding facilities, according to Channel News Asia and Dawn.