{"id":73337,"date":"2026-06-30T10:12:49","date_gmt":"2026-06-30T10:12:49","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/britain\/73337\/"},"modified":"2026-06-30T10:12:49","modified_gmt":"2026-06-30T10:12:49","slug":"britain-has-a-grand-plan-to-defend-against-putin-but-two-major-new-threats-loom","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/britain\/73337\/","title":{"rendered":"Britain has a grand plan to defend against Putin. But two major new threats loom"},"content":{"rendered":"

The British military is investing in an \u201cunmanned force\u201d concept to defend against Russia, based on the Ukrainian model that is making major inroads in the battle against Vladimir Putin\u2019s<\/a> army.\u00a0<\/p>\n

The Army will spend \u00a3500m on upgrading its drone fleet<\/a> and operations as part of a defence package of up to \u00a315bn over three years, due to be announced on Tuesday, which is heavy on the drones<\/a> and Artificial Intelligence that are driving major changes in conflict around the world.<\/p>\n

Funding of around \u00a3500m has also been announced for new commando forces, to be spent on all kinds of surface and underwater drones. Meanwhile, plans to build a new class of naval destroyer, codenamed the Type 83, have been ditched. Instead, the new plan opts for up to six hybrid amphibious assault ships \u2013 platforms to launch drones for land, air and sea combat, and to support attack and rescue helicopters.<\/p>\n

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When could another heatwave hit the UK?<\/p>\n

Some forecasts suggest temperatures could begin to climb again as we enter July. Here is everything you need to know about another upcoming heatwave.<\/p>\n

\"PeopleCaption: People enjoy the weather in the sea and on in the beach in Brighton, on the south coast of England on June 25, 2026, during a heatwave. The UK recorded its hottest ever June temperature on June 24 with the mercury rising to 36.1C in southern England, breaking the previous record of 35.6C set in 1976. (Photo by CARLOS JASSO \/ AFP via Getty Images)
Photographer: CARLOS JASSO
Provider: AFP via Getty Images
Source: AFP
Copyright: AFP or licensors<\/p>\n

What you need to know<\/p>\n

Temperatures are set to remain in the mid 20s this week but conditions to get warmer at the weekend.<\/p>\n

Some models show temperatures reaching the low to mid 30s in England and Wales next week.<\/p>\n

This follows a record-breaking heatwave in June.<\/p>\n

Lingwood, in Norfolk, recorded a value of 37.7\u00b0C last Friday.<\/p>\n

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LIFESTYLE<\/p>\n

5 min read<\/p>\n

What the experts say<\/p>\n

Although a return to heatwave conditions is looking increasingly likely for some areas,\u00a0 the likelihood of such extreme high temperatures or high levels of humidity as last week is currently low.<\/p>\n

Tony Wisson \u2013 Met Office Deputy Chief Forecaster<\/p>\n

\"APhoto: (PA Wire)<\/p>\n

Watch more from The i Paper<\/p>\n

@theipaper<\/a> <\/p>\n

The UK just experienced it\u2019s hottest June day on record with temperatures topping 36\u00b0C in some parts of the country. And while Britain has experienced hotter weather before, like the heatwave in July 2022, something about this one has felt particularly grim-humidity. But why does this make a difference? You can read Clare Wilson\u2019s full article on The i Paper\u2019s website. #heatwave<\/a> #ukheatwave<\/a><\/p>\n

\u266c original sound \u2013 The i Paper \u2013 The i Paper<\/a> <\/p>\n

The eight changes recommended to overhaul NHS maternity system<\/p>\n

The Government has said it will appoint a national maternity commissioner to drive change after a report concluded families have suffered from repeated failures in NHS care.<\/p>\n

\"File(Photo: Yui Mok\/PA Wire)<\/p>\n

The background<\/p>\n

The \u201crapid review\u201d into\u00a0maternity\u00a0care, led by Baroness Valerie Amos, calls for urgent change to the way women and families are treated.<\/p>\n

Lady Amos said families should have the right to an independent investigation of their care when things go wrong and they do not agree with the findings of internal NHS reviews.<\/p>\n

Lady Amos\u2019s report includes eight recommendations on how the maternity system can be redesigned.<\/p>\n

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Explained<\/p>\n

4 min read<\/p>\n

\nThe eight recommendations\n<\/p>\n

1The creation of a \u201cstatutory Maternity and Neonatal Commissioner\u201d.<\/p>\n

2For the system to \u201ctake action to listen to the voices of women, birthing people and families\u201d.<\/p>\n

3To improve the \u201cquality, transparency, oversight and accountability of investigations\u201d, including a \u201cfull explanation\u201d for families when death or harm occurs.<\/p>\n

4To create a \u201cModern Service Framework\u201d to set out national standards for \u201cresponsive, safe and improved services\u201d.<\/p>\n

\nThe eight recommendations\n<\/p>\n

5To treat racism, discrimination and inequality as a \u201ccritical maternity safety issue\u201d, starting work immediately.<\/p>\n

6For the \u201cModern Service Framework\u201d to include \u201cstreamlined, national oversight and leadership model\u201d, to have clear accountability.<\/p>\n

7To \u201cimprove culture and teamworking\u201d across the board \u2013 including those on the ward, on trust boards and in the government department.<\/p>\n

8To \u201cdeliver estates and digital systems that are fit for modern maternity and neonatal care\u201d.<\/p>\n

Government promises change<\/p>\n

For too long women, babies and families have been failed by a system that\u00a0didn\u2019t\u00a0listen. Their stories are heart-breaking and demand action.<\/p>\n

Secretary of state for health james murray<\/p>\n

\"EMBARGOEDMinisters have backtracked on a promise to boost council funding to offer early years health support to help parents bond with, and feed, infant children (Photo: Andrew Matthews\/PA) <\/p>\n

Donations to charity have increased dramatically<\/p>\n

But staff say many people treat their shops like a tip. <\/p>\n

Here they share the most useful donations they get, and the
ones that drive them mad.<\/p>\n

\"AA rail of clothes in a second hand vintage charity shop \u2013 stock photo. (Photo: Getty)<\/p>\n

\"\" <\/p>\n

People won\u2019t buy the current donations<\/p>\n

The quality of donations over the last year has diminished.<\/p>\n

Claire Stockman, head of retail for\u00a0St
Luke\u2019s Hospice [pictured], says many donations include used items from fast fashion like Boohoo and Primark, which they cannot sell for more than \u00a32, if at all.<\/p>\n

\nWhat the workers see\n<\/p>\n

60%<\/p>\n

of what comes into St Luke\u2019s Hospice is unsellable, Stockman says.<\/p>\n

She adds its soiled, damaged beyond
repair or smelly.<\/p>\n

Vinted<\/p>\n

Harriet, a volunteer at\u00a0Crisis in Dalston,
says people bring in clothes that are dirty and stained \u2013 things that they cannot sell
on Vinted.<\/p>\n

She also sees dirty kitchenware and technology that no longer works.<\/p>\n

It\u2019s not all bad<\/p>\n

\"TwoTwo young women shopping in a vintage charity shop \u2013 stock photo. (Photo: Getty)<\/p>\n

Harriet says they still get their
fair share of designer items.<\/p>\n

She\u2019s seen a pair of Louboutins
sell for around \u00a3400.<\/p>\n

People will buy high-end items
even if they\u2019re a little worn.<\/p>\n

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First Person<\/p>\n

6 min read<\/p>\n

The best donations<\/p>\n

There was a box donated after someone\u2019s family had passed and in it were all these medals. I researched them and the whole collection ended up going for \u00a32,340\u2026<\/p>\n

JANE THURNELL-READ, VOLUNTEER AT
THE OXFAM GENERAL SHOP IN EXETER<\/p>\n

\"\" <\/p>\n

What is a good donation?<\/p>\n

\"AA young woman chooses clothes in a fashion store and reads the labels on things while shopping at the mall. A millennial shopaholic woman tries on clothes in a fashion boutique \u2013 stock photo. (Photo: Getty)<\/p>\n

A good donation is anything new with tags on, anything that hasn\u2019t been opened, or higher quality items.<\/p>\n

Items that have been well looked after are more likely to sell and generate a better price for charity too.<\/p>\n

Harriet adds that knick-knacks and wine glasses are surprise hits in her branch.<\/p>\n

The feeling of dread that the weekend is over is all too familiar.<\/p>\n

Here, psychologists, career consultants and sleep experts give their best advice on how
to beat the gloom that the
work week is looming\u2026<\/p>\n

\"Woman(Photo: Getty).<\/p>\n

\nHow to beat the Sunday scaries\n<\/p>\n

Pave the way on Friday<\/p>\n

Psychologist Maria-Teresa Daher-Cusack says to wrap up tasks and not to leave big or difficult things for Monday. And write a to-do list for the next week so you know what to expect when you return after the weekend.<\/p>\n

\"YoungYoung man practicing meditation in nature at sunrise \u2013 stock photo. (Photo: Getty)<\/p>\n

\"\"Working from home is being blamed by some councils for the rise in fraudulent \u2018polygamous\u2019 working (Photo: Moment RF\/Getty)<\/p>\n

Get outside early<\/p>\n

Doctor Naheed Ali says getting out on a Sunday morning \u2013 not sleeping late \u2013 helps regulate the circadian rhythm that can become skewed over the weekend.<\/p>\n

\nHow to avoid Sunday scaries\n<\/p>\n

On Sunday spend time away from technology to allow yourself a personal reset away from doom scrolling.<\/p>\n

\"RelaxingRelaxing with dog on sofa \u2013 stock photo. (Photo: Getty)<\/p>\n

Rebrand your Sunday evenings from a daunting time to relaxing. Career consultant Victoria McLean goes out for dinner or reads something unrelated to work.<\/p>\n

She also doesn\u2019t check her inbox on a Sunday night as it can begin the dread.<\/p>\n

\nHow to beat the Sunday scaries\n<\/p>\n

\"SleepSleep tourism in hotel. Exhausted woman sleeps sweetly in bed in the morning \u2013 stock photo. (Photo: Getty)<\/p>\n

Sleep well<\/p>\n

Put yourself in the best position to rest by avoiding large meals, screens and caffeine.<\/p>\n

Structure your week<\/p>\n

If possible don\u2019t stack your Mondays with high-pressure tasks.<\/p>\n

\"CaucasianCaucasian mid adult patient writing a diary while recovering in the hospital ward \u2013 stock photo. (Photo: Getty)<\/p>\n

\"CheerfulCheerful aged woman, senior intern waving, saying goodbye to her young colleagues while leaving office after first day at work \u2013 stock photo. (Photo: Getty)<\/p>\n

Find the fun daily<\/p>\n

Don\u2019t just save joyful things for the weekend. On lunch breaks, try to do something you enjoy.<\/p>\n

\"The(Photo: Getty).<\/p>\n

Sometimes, you
need to listen.<\/p>\n

If the Sunday scaries are constant, listen to them. If every Sunday fills you with dread and nothing seems to quell it it\u2019s worth asking if it\u2019s the job, the culture or the career itself. No one should spend half their weekend bracing for impact\u2026 \u201d says Victoria McLean<\/p>\n

The UK has one of the most stable\u00a0electricity grids\u00a0in the world.<\/p>\n

But no country\u2019s energy system is 100 per cent secure and large-scale blackouts, although rare, are possible. <\/p>\n

Here\u2019s how to prepare, and what could happen, if we do have a blackout.<\/p>\n

\"\" <\/p>\n

The immediate effects <\/p>\n

If the UK\u2019s power went down tomorrow, these are the ways it is likely to impact you first.<\/p>\n

You\u2019d get stuck in lifts, wherever you are in the lift shaft.<\/p>\n

Trains would be stopped as the signals depend on electricity.<\/p>\n

Traffic lights would stop working on the roads \u2013 leading to congestion or crashes.<\/p>\n

Contactless payments are likely to fail.<\/p>\n

Your Wi-Fi at home would stop working and communication becomes difficult.<\/p>\n

Fridges and freezers will turn off \u2013 unless you have a standalone generator \u2013 and food will spoil over time.<\/p>\n

Hospitals and water treatment works have their own backup generators so will keep going until their supply runs out.<\/p>\n

How transport would be affected<\/p>\n

\"ThisCaption: This photograph taken on April 29, 2026 shows people charging their electric vehicles at a charging station in Kathmandu. As global fuel markets reel from the Middle East war, motorists in Nepal are increasingly turning to electric vehicles, with high demand putting a strain on dealerships. (Photo by Prakash MATHEMA \/ AFP via Getty Images) \/ TO GO WITH \u2018Nepal-Transport-Automobile-Energy\u2019 FOCUS
Photographer: PRAKASH MATHEMA
Provider: AFP via Getty Images
Source: AFP
Copyright: AFP or licensors<\/p>\n

For EV owners that are already on the road, Professor Keith Bell, who works in electricity planning, recommends that those with an EV with reasonable charge use it as a generator, like your own store of electricity. <\/p>\n

In the case of the power system going down, petrol isn\u2019t a totally safe option as queues at petrol stations could be huge and places are likely to run out of fuel. <\/p>\n

\nThe longer term effects\n<\/p>\n

The longer the power takes to return the worse things are likely to get. In 2021 Storm Arwen physically damaged power lines across the UK.<\/p>\n

\"AWithout nuclear to take the strain, that exposure to gas is costing us dear (Photo: Catherine Falls Commercial\/Getty)<\/p>\n

\"FILECaption: FILE PHOTO: A row of electricity pylons is seen near the Frodsham on shore wind farm in Frodsham, Britain, September 5, 2023. REUTERS\/Phil Noble\/File Photo
Photographer: Phil Noble
Provider: REUTERS
Source: REUTERS<\/p>\n

During the 1977 New York blackout, which lasted 25 hours, there was civil unrest, resulting in widespread looting and arson, although intense heatwaves are thought to have exacerbated the situation.<\/p>\n

\nThings to buy now to prepare\n<\/p>\n

\"GreatThe Russian state-owned Sputnik news agency took over the BBC\u2019s radio frequency in Lebanon (Photo: Getty)<\/p>\n

Battery radio<\/p>\n

To get updates during a power cut \u2013 a car radio can be used, but in severe weather it might be safer to stay inside.<\/p>\n

Bottled water<\/p>\n

A minimum of 2.5-3 litres of drinking water per person per day is recommended.<\/p>\n

\"PlasticCaption: Plastic bottle with clean water on a blue background.
Photographer: SimpleImages
Provider: Getty Images
Source: Moment RF<\/p>\n

\"TOPSHOTA Cuban rides his bike during a nation wide blackout in Havana on 21 March (Photo: Yamil Lage\/AFP\/Getty)<\/p>\n

Wind-up torch<\/p>\n

The Government recommends opting for torches over candles, for safety reasons.<\/p>\n

\nHow to prepare\n<\/p>\n

A blackout is unlikely but we should make small changes.<\/p>\n

If possible, don\u2019t let your petrol tank run down to almost empty. Keep it over half full so you\u2019re never caught short.<\/p>\n

Always have a portable power bank, and spare batteries, to charge your phone and other essentials.<\/p>\n

As card machines could fail, keep some cash at home.<\/p>\n

To keep yourself distracted and entertained, keep board games and a pack of cards handy to play. <\/p>\n

\"\" <\/p>\n

Eight easy ways to stop
your child spending summer glued to their devices<\/p>\n

Not all screen time is bad<\/p>\n

Using screens in a way that benefits your\u00a0child\u2019s development\u00a0is key and balancing educational content and entertainment with offline activities ensures a well-rounded routine.<\/p>\n

DR GUMMER<\/p>\n

\"\" <\/p>\n

\nHow to keep your kids off screens\n<\/p>\n

\"\" <\/p>\n

Outdoor activities<\/p>\n

For younger children, try scavenger hunts, garden games and nature walks. For older ones, hikes
and biking trips.<\/p>\n

Create a schedule<\/p>\n

Designated screen-free times helps children develop a routine that balances screen use with other activities.<\/p>\n

\"ACaption: Mid adult man with eyeglasses sitting on a comfortable sofa at home, thoughtfully writing notes in a small notebook while natural sunlight illuminates the room
Photographer: Milan Markovic
Provider: Getty Images
Source: E+<\/p>\n

\"\" <\/p>\n

Family game nights<\/p>\n

It\u2019s an excellent way
to bond and develop critical thinking skills.<\/p>\n

\nHow to keep your kids off screens\n<\/p>\n

Creative hobbies<\/p>\n

Getting creative, through drawing, painting or model construction, enhances cognitive skills and offers an alternative to screens.<\/p>\n

\"\" <\/p>\n

\"\" <\/p>\n

Social interaction<\/p>\n

Arrange playdates or group activities with friends, or for older kids try an overnight camping trip in the garden.<\/p>\n

\nHow to keep your kids off screens\n<\/p>\n

Lead by example<\/p>\n

Showing that you value offline time encourages your children to do the same.<\/p>\n

\"\" <\/p>\n

\"\" <\/p>\n

Have a reward<\/p>\n

Implement a reward system where screen time is earned through positive behaviour.\u00a0<\/p>\n

Open conversations<\/p>\n

Discuss the importance of balancing screen time with your children so they understand the reasons behind the rules.<\/p>\n

\"\" <\/p>\n

Can following a particular diet
help prevent or delay\u00a0dementia?\u00a0<\/p>\n

Some studies suggest so. <\/p>\n

These are the eight brain-boosting foods registered dietitian\u00a0Fareeha Jay
recommends people consume as part of a weekly diet\u2026<\/p>\n

\"\" <\/p>\n

\nFoods that can cut dementia risk\n<\/p>\n

\"ACaption: A detail of cracked egg falling into the pan as woman holds egg shells in both hands.
Photographer: SimpleImages
Provider: Getty Images
Source: Moment RF<\/p>\n

Eggs<\/p>\n

They contain several nutrients thought to\u00a0support brain health, including choline, vitamin B12 and iodine.<\/p>\n

Coffee<\/p>\n

Caffeine can reduce inflammation and
slow the degeneration
of brain cells.<\/p>\n

\"BaristaBarista hand making cappuccino Coffee with espresso machine in cafe \u2013 stock photo. (Photo: Getty)<\/p>\n

\"RoastingCooking fruit and vegetables (Photor: GMVozd\/Getty Images\/E+)<\/p>\n

Broccoli<\/p>\n

It\u2019s packed with antioxidants and high in vitamin K, which is essentially for healthy brain cells.<\/p>\n

Fibre is overlooked in dementia prevention<\/p>\n

\"CookieCaption: Cookie jar, tea, wine, nuts, books, lit candles and Christmas decorations on the table. Cozy Christmas hygge at home. Selective focus.
Photographer: Jelena990
Provider: Getty Images
Source: iStockphoto<\/p>\n

To increase fibre intake, include wholegrains, nuts, seeds, lentils, and legumes.<\/p>\n

Fermented foods also support brain health by improving the gut microbiome.<\/p>\n

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LIFESTYLE<\/p>\n

4 min read<\/p>\n

\nFoods that can cut dementia risk\n<\/p>\n

\"\"(Photo: Joff Lee\/Getty Images)<\/p>\n

Oily fish<\/p>\n

Your brain uses Omega-3s to build brain and nerve cells \u2013 so a diet rich in them may\u00a0slow age-related mental decline.<\/p>\n

Walnuts<\/p>\n

These improve heart health markers, which is linked to a lower risk of neurological disorders.<\/p>\n

\"VariousHealth professionals are nuts about nuts \u2013 with good reason!<\/p>\n

\"ASupermarkets report increasing demand for blueberries (Photo: RHS\/Guy Harrop)<\/p>\n

Blueberries<\/p>\n

They contain compounds which have been shown to improve blood flow to the brain, cognitive function, and memory.<\/p>\n

\nThe Mind diet\n<\/p>\n

The diet aims to reduce\u00a0dementia risk\u00a0and the decline in brain health.\u00a0<\/p>\n

It was created in 2015 by Dr Martha Clare Morris and colleagues at Rush University Medical Centre and the Harvard Chan School of Public Health.<\/p>\n

It encourages vegetables, berries, nuts, whole grains, olive oil, fish, beans, and poultry.<\/p>\n

These foods contain nutrients that promote good brain health by reducing oxidative stress and inflammation.<\/p>\n

\"D?sseldorf,The Midlife MOT is open to all and covers three key areas: work, wealth and well-being (Photo: Westend61\/Getty)<\/p>\n

Feeling insecure at work
in your 50s? You\u2019re not alone <\/p>\n

The final decades of work<\/p>\n

There\u2019s this assumption about being put out to pasture\u2026 but now that we\u2019re living and working longer, we have to challenge myths around ageing and remember that over-50s are a crucial part of the workforce\u2026<\/p>\n

LYNDSEY SIMPSON, AUTHOR OF AGE REBELLION AND FOUNDER OF 55\/REDEFINED<\/p>\n

\"\" <\/p>\n

\nThe current situation\n<\/p>\n

By 2030, almost half of all employees in the UK workforce will be over 50.<\/p>\n

36%<\/p>\n

Now one in three workers are over 50.\u00a0<\/p>\n

Yet more than a third of those between 50 and 69 believe that their age puts them at a disadvantage when they apply for jobs.\u00a0<\/p>\n

37%<\/p>\n

The\u00a0Age Without Limits\u00a0study from 2024 shows that 37 per cent of workers between 51 to 70 felt badly treated in work because of their age.<\/p>\n

\nThe things to do, says Simpson\n<\/p>\n

\"OnlineMore and more people are using AI for counselling (Photo: Oscar Wong\/Getty\/Moment RF)<\/p>\n

Keep learning new skills<\/p>\n

We need the same level of career planning in
our fifties as our twenties. It\u2019s possible to reinvent yourself again.<\/p>\n

Embrace technology<\/p>\n

It\u2019s nonsense that older people can\u2019t pick up how to use new tech.<\/p>\n

\"John?rCaption: John?r Bildbyr? AB
+46 8 644 83 30
www.johner.se
info@johner.se
sales@johner.se
Photographer: Johner Images
Provider: Getty Images\/Johner RF
Source: Johner RF
Copyright: John?r Images\/Lisa ?berg<\/p>\n

\"ThisCaption: This is a photo of a woman clutching a pink piggy bank labelled pension. See PA Feature FINANCE Pension Pots. WARNING: This picture must only be used to accompany PA Feature FINANCE Pension Pots. PA Photo. Photo credit should read: Alamy\/PA<\/p>\n

NOTE TO EDITORS: This picture must only be used to accompany PA Feature FINANCE Pension Pots<\/p>\n

Photographer: Alamy\/PA
Provider: Alamy\/PA
Source: PA<\/p>\n

Think about money<\/p>\n

Do you need a pay rise? Could you trade some of that money you earn, to work a bit less, and do more things you enjoy?<\/p>\n

\nThe things not to do\n<\/p>\n

Become full-time childcare<\/p>\n

Grandparenting on the horizon? If you don\u2019t want to do childcare, have the conversation early \u2013 even before a child becomes pregnant \u2013 that you plan to continue working and love your job.<\/p>\n

\"IndoorCaption: Indoor image of thoughtful puzzled senior woman with gray hair in glasses looking at paycheck holding head in hand, upset with high rent charge, sitting at kitchen table in front of laptop
Photographer: shurkin_son
Provider: Getty Images
Source: iStockphoto<\/p>\n

\"GrandparentsGrandparents and granddaughter gardening together \u2013 stock photo. (Photo: Getty)<\/p>\n

Accept redundancy too quickly<\/p>\n

It\u2019s going to be so much harder to get back into work if you don\u2019t have a plan before you take that leap.<\/p>\n

\nThe things not to do\n<\/p>\n

Rush into retirement<\/p>\n

\"SeniorSenior bed woman problem pain headache home elderly mature pain bedroom upset unhappy female caucasian adult relationship retirement old difficulty ache head sick migraine hangover sleep \u2013 stock photo. (Photo: Getty)<\/p>\n

Everybody thinks early retirement is the dream but the reality can be different. There can be loneliness, lack of purpose and a sense of invisibility.\u00a0<\/p>\n

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LIFESTYLE<\/p>\n

5 min read<\/p>\n

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It represents a major sea change in the UK\u2019s approach to military spending. Previous plans for an unmanned British force were nixed by the Treasury three years ago as being too expensive \u2013 and the UK has subsequently watched as Ukraine\u2019s drones have devastated supply lines to a depth of 25 miles behind Russia\u2019s front lines. Ukrainian forces have made the two main road routes across southern Ukraine beyond hazardous by targeting Russian trucks. Russian-occupied Crimea is all but stranded.<\/p>\n

These attacks are being matched by the increase in the use of medium and long-range missiles against fuel dumps and factories in Russia itself.<\/p>\n

This has led to fears that Putin may lash out and expand the war with hybrid activities \u2013 Latvia and Estonia<\/a> are thought to be particularly vulnerable.<\/p>\n

The UK, meanwhile, has been trialling its new Asgard AI-enabled targeting network system. It allows targets to be identified by a range of sensors, satellites drones and recce aircraft, and orders to be transmitted within seconds to \u201ceffectors\u201d or \u201cshooters\u201d \u2013 anything from rocket artillery to howitzers, attack helicopters, drones, cruise missiles or bomber aircraft.<\/p>\n

New funding will go into enhancing the system and moving it into full production. But money will also be spent on the new architecture of the fighting Army \u2013 depicted as the \u201c20-40-40\u201d plan by General Sir Roly Walker, its chief.<\/p>\n

The 20 is the heavy equipment: tanks, artillery and carriers. The 40 is the new agile kit that turns the modern battle: aerial; drones, robot attack vehicles and carriers that are more dispensable and can be risked more easily. The remaining 40 is the mixed reserve and vital support forces.<\/p>\n

\"LAKENHEATH,An F-35 Lightning II stealth multirole fighter jet overflies RAF Lakenheath in April 2026 (Photo: Leon Neal\/Getty Images)<\/p>\n

The RAF is also expecting an uplift \u2013 notably a squadron of long-range F-35A Lightning II aircraft capable of dropping a tactical nuclear bomb, as well as more funding for the new Wedgetail EW early warning aircraft. It has three but wants five.<\/p>\n

One item for the long term is guaranteed funding for the 6th generation combat aircraft, Tempest, which Britain shares with Italy and Japan. An extra \u00a36bn is being earmarked for the next phase of development. The first prototype is due to fly next year, but more money is needed if it is to be ready by 2035.<\/p>\n

Prime Minister Keir Starmer<\/a> and Defence Secretary Dan Jarvis will announce the Defence Investment Plan later on Tuesday.<\/p>\n

The critical boost has been welcomed by the Army and Navy, after some wrangling with the Treasury<\/a> over the past ten days. It appears to be just in time and just enough, as they used to say in Japanese business management \u2013 more than the Armed Forces expected, but also less than they hoped for. They had been aiming for \u00a318bn.<\/p>\n

In many ways, the new plan has a touch of the quick and dirty about it. The services have got just about the minimum of what they wanted, but it is also clear the fight for defence funding is far from over.<\/p>\n

Britain needs to present a fully funded plan for the modernisation and deployment of its forces when Nato<\/a> heads of state meet in Ankara in just over a week. This will, in all probability, be Starmer\u2019s last major appearance as Prime Minister on the international stage, though the funding has also been broadly agreed with Andy Burnham<\/a>, his likely successor. It would have been embarrassing turning up with nothing yet agreed.<\/p>\n

\"ImageAn Anafi Parrot quadcopter being launched from HMS Dagger by members of the Royal Navy\u2019s Gibraltar Squadron (Photo: Lt Ryan Price\/MoD)<\/p>\n

In many ways, the new funding plan is a two- to three-year plan, rather than a ten-year plan. This is a good thing, with the speed in which warfare is changing in conflicts in Ukraine<\/a> and the Middle East<\/a>. The whole future of defence, including nuclear weaponry, is likely to get a thorough going over in next year\u2019s Comprehensive Spending Review.<\/p>\n

But it\u2019s fair to say that British forces are looking at a revolution in how we meet the complex challenges we are seeing today. There is a move away from being \u201cjoint forces\u201d that work together on occasion, but have a separate culture and command, to becoming an \u201cintegrated force\u201d led by one strategic command.<\/p>\n

After continuous wrangling over a funding plan which was supposed to be ready ten months ago, the new Defence Investment Plan is a notable development. It sets us up for the future, but plans will need continuous revision and upgrade. New threats and challenges are already here: quantum computing and new biological and chemical weaponry, to name but two.<\/p>\n

Now one funding round is sorted, the next will already be under discussion in some quarters.<\/p>\n

And what of future funding? The ever-reliable rumour mill of the barrack room and sergeants mess has come up with one extraordinary but unconfirmed rumour. \u201cWe think Dan Jarvis will be replaced,\u201d one insider said. \u201cBurnham would likely want to send him north again, so he\u2019ll put Rachel Reeves<\/a> in as defence secretary. She\u2019s always been going on about defence accounts, so now she can sort them herself.\u201d<\/p>\n

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