UK Pledges 5% GDP for Security by 2035

UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer has announced a significant commitment to increase the country’s security spending to 5% of its GDP by 2035, aligning with NATO’s new defense spending target. This pledge represents a substantial escalation from the current plans to reach 2.6% by 2027, and includes 3.5% for defense and 1.5% for broader security efforts, such as cyber defense, infrastructure, and border protection.

The announcement was made as NATO leaders gathered in The Hague to adopt the 5% goal, a notable increase from the current 2% target. This move is seen as a response to rising global security concerns and a nod to US President Donald Trump’s calls for European nations to take on more defense responsibilities. The UK's new framework broadens the definition of security spending to include critical infrastructure, supply chain resilience, and border protection, aiming to reach 4.1% of GDP on security by 2027.

However, the government has not provided a detailed roadmap on how it plans to achieve the 5% goal, particularly since the majority of the increase is scheduled to occur after the next two general elections. Critics have noted the lack of a clear strategy and the deferral of significant increases beyond 2029. Despite this, the commitment envisions dedicating 3.5% to defense by 2035, with the remaining 1.5% allocated to broader security efforts.

The UK's pledge is part of a broader European response to Russia’s ongoing war in Ukraine, which has intensified calls for bolstering defense budgets. The NATO Secretary General, Mark Rutte, extended the deadline for meeting the new target from 2032 to 2035, following negotiations with the UK. Most NATO allies are expected to accept the new target, although Spain secured an exemption, arguing that capability, not money, matters. Germany, meanwhile, has committed to increasing its defense expenditure to 3.5% in the next five years.

The UK is also set to unveil its National Security Strategy, alongside a review of its ties with China and a new industrial plan. The strategy emphasizes competitiveness in areas such as science, education, trade, and advanced technology, with £86 billion earmarked for R&D investment. This investment aims to support technology growth and strengthen protection against cyber threats and sabotage. The UK's approach signals a shift toward greater strategic independence and resilience, with a more systematic pursuit of national interests.