Something’s got to give (Opinion)
The RAF is retiring its C-130J Super Hercules fleet in 2023. (Photo: UK MoD/Crown Copyright)
UK defence policy lacks coherence as the gap between rhetoric and reality remains as wide as ever, while the government remains focused on self-preservation instead of giving clear direction.
The war in Ukraine has thrown up challenges and deep questions for NATO militaries around their role, relevance and future strategic direction.
For some nations, the latest example of Russian aggression was a wake-up call, resulting in sharply rising defence budgets, and aspirations to increase capability and personnel. For others, it is too soon to tell whether they will restructure and reform or keep on the same course.
The UK finds itself in the latter camp.
Despite taking a leading and highly visible role in confronting Russia and supporting Ukraine, including extensive political and military assistance, the UK has yet
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