The UK armed forces could be forced to reduce military exercises and operations if additional funding is not secured, the Chief of the Defence Staff, Marshal Sir Richard Knighton, has warned.
According to him, the government's Defense Investment Plan does not include sufficient funding to support the daily activities of the armed forces in the short term, jeopardizing operational readiness.
The warning comes at a time of political tension following the resignation of former Defence Secretary John Healey, who argued that the proposed level of funding would reduce the readiness of British forces and increase the risk to personnel engaged in missions.
In a statement to the House of Commons, Healey said the decision to step down was taken to protect the future of the UK's armed forces and alliances. He also criticised Chancellor Rachel Reeves, claiming she had failed to provide the necessary funding to respond to security threats.
"My decision last week was about our country, not my career," Healey declared, adding that "our opponents are not following the deadlines set by the Treasury."
The British government has pledged to increase defence spending to 3.5% of national income by 2035, in line with the targets of NATO allies. However, Healey has called for this target to be met sooner, proposing spending reach 3% of Gross Domestic Product by 2030.
Meanwhile, the publication of the Defence Investment Plan has been delayed following Healey's resignation, while the new Defence Secretary, Dan Jarvis, is considering how the planned funds will be distributed. So far, there are no signals from the government that additional financial resources will be allocated.
