In response to an inquiry from Conservative MP Mark Francois, the UK Ministry of defense (MoD) has disclosed detailed budget projections for the nation’s defense expenditure in the coming financial years.
Francois, who represents Rayleigh and Wickford, asked for clarification on the total defense spending for 2024-25 and 2025-26, both in cash terms and as a percentage of Gross Domestic Product (GDP), excluding any funding allocated for Ukraine support.
Maria Eagle, the Minister of State for defiance, responded on 13 November 2024, outlining the anticipated defense spending:
• For 2024-25, total defense expenditure is projected to be £64.4 billion, representing 2.29% of GDP.
• For 2025-26, this is expected to increase to £67.7 billion, or 2.30% of GDP.
When Ukraine-related spending is excluded, the revised figures are £61.4 billion for 2024-25 (2.18% of GDP) and £64.7 billion for 2025-26 (2.19% of GDP).
Eagle noted that these figures could change based on the outcome of the second phase of the Spending Review.
The planned increase in the defense budget follows an announcement by Chancellor Rachel Reeves, who confirmed a £2.9 billion boost to the MoD’s budget as part of the government’s broader initiative to bolster national security.
This increase aligns with the government’s defiance Strategic Review, which is expected to guide future defense priorities and investments.
The government has reiterated its commitment to fulfilling NATO obligations and continuing support for Ukraine.
The enhanced funding is intended to reinforce the UK’s defense capabilities amid rising geopolitical tensions.
Despite the funding increase, the government has not provided a firm timeline for reaching its long-term goal of defense spending at 2.5% of GDP, a target frequently mentioned in reports from the UK defense Journal.
While the intention to meet this benchmark remains, specific plans or deadlines have not been established.
The £2.9 billion increase is part of broader fiscal measures aimed at stabilising the UK economy. These measures include a £40 billion tax increase and future plans to raise national insurance contributions starting in 2025.
The commitment to boosting the defense budget and reaching the 2.5% GDP target reflects the UK government’s focus on strengthening national security and responding to evolving global challenges.
However, questions remain regarding the exact timeline and strategies for achieving this significant benchmark in defense spending.
