To make this website work, we log user data. By using Shephard's online services, you agree to our Privacy Policy, including cookie policy.

×
Open menu Search

UK’s refreshed Defence Command Paper earns mixed reviews

20th July 2023 - 12:00 GMT | by Harry Lye in Stratford-upon-Avon

RSS

The new Defence Command Paper included no new plans for the procurement of platforms such as main battle tanks. (Photo: UK MoD/ Crown Copyright.)

Having finally published a long-awaited refreshed Defence Command Paper on 18 July, experts have weighed in on the quality of the UK’s defence plans.

Published two years after the original Defence Command Paper in 2021, the refreshed document varies little from the original defence plan but added more funding for munitions stockpiles and the promise of new career pathways.

The additional £2.5 billion ($3.27 billion) in stockpile investment recognises that stocks of essential munitions had been allowed to dwindle.

Laying out the document before Parliament, outgoing Defence Secretary Ben Wallace said that previous Conservative and Labour governments had 'hollowed out' defence for too long.

Wallace – who will leave his post at the next reshuffle - said that the Department had not planned on

Already have an account? Log in

Want to keep reading this article?

Harry Lye

Author

Harry Lye


Harry Lye was Senior Naval Reporter at Shephard Media.

Harry joined the company in 2021, …

Read full bio

Share to

Linkedin