In a move aimed at cost-saving measures, Defence Secretary John Healey has announced the decommissioning of £500m worth of British navy vessels. This decision, described as a “black day” for the new government, includes scrapping two former Royal Navy flagships, a frigate, and two support tankers. The savings from this move will be reinvested into the defence budget.
The shadow defence secretary, James Cartlidge, criticized this decision as “cuts, instead of a pathway to 2.5%”, referring to the government’s plan to raise UK defence spending to 2.5% of GDP without providing an end date for the initiative. The decommissioning of assault ships HMS Albion and HMS Bulwark has raised concerns about the UK’s future amphibious capability.
Additionally, the retirement of the 14 oldest Chinook transport helicopters from service and the non-extension of the Puma’s lifespan beyond March 2025 were also announced. Healey emphasized that these decisions would pave the way for the introduction of new and more capable helicopters while saving money for defence.
Healey also discussed London’s plan to support Ukraine during a call with his counterpart in Kyiv. They highlighted the recent Russian escalations in attacks on Ukrainian cities and children, energy systems, and deployment of North Korean troops. The UK government remains committed to supporting Ukraine throughout 2025, although further operational details were not disclosed at this time.
Overall, these cost-saving measures have sparked concerns about the UK’s defence capabilities and readiness to respond to potential threats in the future.
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