Prime Minister Keir Starmer has announced the largest increase in UK defense spending since the Cold War.

This was reported by the UK Defence Journal.

It is planned that the British government will increase the defense budget to 2.5% of GDP starting in April 2027, and then to 3%.

According to the UK Defence Journal, this step is part of a strategy aimed at strengthening national security, stimulating economic growth, and protecting British interests in the face of growing global instability.

“My first duty as Prime Minister is to keep our country safe. In an increasingly dangerous world, making our country more resilient so that we can protect the British people, face future shocks and defend British interests is vital,” Starmer stated.

The British government plans to allocate funds for the development of artificial intelligence, quantum computing and space technologies.

The increase in spending should help grow the defense industry, strengthen production in different regions of the country and support more than 430,000 jobs.

As part of the increase in defense spending, the government plans to improve interoperability with allies, ensuring that the UK remains a leading player in European security.

In addition to the commitment to 2.5% of GDP, the government has also updated the definition of defense spending to include the contributions of the UK’s intelligence and security services, recognizing their critical role in national defense.

Keir Starmer is also planning to travel to Washington this week to discuss UK-U.S. defense cooperation with President Trump, strengthening the strategic partnership between the two countries.

Recently, on February 22, it was reported that the British Ministry of Defense will purchase GLADIUS anti-surface mines to enhance its anti-tank capabilities.

The contract is expected to be signed in the near future and will last for three months. During this period, the company is to supply an unspecified number of mines to the British army.