Chief of Defence Staff Sir Richard Knighton: UK Faces Greatest Threat Since Cold War
The United Kingdom faces greater risks and threats now than at any point since the Cold War, according to the Chief of the Defence Staff, Sir Richard Knighton. He stated, "This is the most dangerous period that I have known," highlighting Russia's consistent "probing, challenging, testing our defences" and its actions which are "raising the stakes and risks crossing a line."
Sir Richard emphasised that while the armed forces have historically prepared for short, contained conflicts, the UK must now be ready for longer engagements, akin to the ongoing situation in Ukraine. This assessment follows the 2025 Strategic Defence Review, which he characterised as a "call to arms."
These statements arrive ahead of the anticipated release of the Defence Investment Plan, a document detailing funding for new equipment and infrastructure over the next decade. Its publication has seen multiple delays, with the Prime Minister now committing to its release before an upcoming NATO summit. Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer affirmed close consultation with the armed forces on the plan.
Regarding criticisms of diminished UK capabilities, particularly from former Defence Secretary Lord Robertson, Sir Richard expressed confidence that ministers are aware of the threats and are increasing defence spending. He noted an increase in long-range Russian aviation incursions into the High North in 2026, equalling the previous year's figures, though Russian military aircraft have not entered UK airspace.
Sir Richard also underscored the evolving nature of warfare, with drones and autonomous systems becoming "increasingly important." He reiterated, "The risks and threats to this country are greater than I have known since the Cold War. And it is important that society and all of us recognise and understand that and that may mean that we need to make different choices and different priorities." Beyond traditional military challenges, Russia is also employing cyber warfare, sabotage, and assassination attempts.
Lord Robertson had previously warned in April that the UK's security was "in peril" due to "corrosive complacency" in government defence policy, arguing that "we cannot defend Britain with an ever-expanding welfare budget." Downing Street previously asserted that the UK defence budget is rising to record levels.
