Summary
The UK Ministry of Defence plans to spend over £1 billion on technology to make battlefield decisions quicker and more effective. This funding is part of the government's defence review, which also aims to raise defence spending. Key technologies include a Digital Targeting Web that uses satellites and drones, and a focus on cyber defence and attacks, reflecting lessons from current conflicts.
Key Facts
- The UK will invest over £1 billion in developing battlefield technology.
- The government plans to raise defence spending to 2.5% of GDP by 2027, with the goal of increasing it to 3% later.
- A Digital Targeting Web will help soldiers by providing fast information using satellites, aircraft, and drones.
- The Defence Secretary highlighted the use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and software, learning from Ukraine's experience in its conflict.
- The UK military has experienced more than 90,000 cyber-attacks in the past two years.
- A new Cyber and Electromagnetic Command will oversee cyber operations and electronic warfare.
- The UK's offensive cyber-attacks and defensive measures are part of adapting to modern warfare tactics.
- The government's increased spending on defence stems from reallocating funds from cuts to the foreign aid budget.
