Defence

Looming threats of war in Europe demand we put our defences on a war footing

Committing to spend almost £90bn a year on defence from 2030 is a big decision, but the government is clear that it’s necessary, given the threat posed by Russia

British Prime MInister Rishi Sunak announced a major increase in defence spending on Tuesday. Picture: Getty

“If you want peace, prepare for war”. It’s an old adage and, to some, no doubt, a stark message. But, as the international security landscape gets ever darker, it’s one my government takes to heart.

Thus on 23 April, visiting our troops in Poland, Rishi Sunak announced that Britain will spend an extra £75 billion on defence between now and 2030.

By then we will spend 2.5% of GDP on defence, a quarter more than ...