Defence Oral Questions January 2025

January oral Defence questions highlighted several critical themes, including military support for Ukraine, defence spending and procurement, support for veterans, housing for service personnel, and the strategic defence review (SDR). These discussions provided insight into the government’s priorities and future direction in addressing evolving threats and supporting the armed forces.

Military support for Ukraine remains a top priority, with Defence Secretary John Healey emphasising the UK’s commitment to strengthening Ukraine’s position on the battlefield and at the negotiating table. The UK has pledged increased military aid, including artillery, air defence systems, and drones. Healey also announced the activation of the UK-led Joint Expeditionary Force (JEF) system to monitor and counter Russian “shadow fleet” activities, particularly in response to undersea infrastructure sabotage in the Baltic region. This effort underlines the UK’s role in addressing hybrid threats that extend beyond conventional warfare.

On defence spending and procurement, the government reaffirmed its commitment to increase spending to 2.5% of GDP, with a clear path to be set out in the spring. Healey noted that while the UK remains one of NATO’s highest defence spenders, the focus must also shift to addressing inefficiencies, as only two out of 49 major defence projects are currently on track. Reforms are underway to reduce delays and waste, ensuring that investment translates into tangible improvements in military capabilities.

Support for veterans was another focal point, with Veterans Minister Al Carns detailing initiatives such as housing support, mental health programs, and the recognition of veteran ID cards for voter identification. Housing remains a pressing issue, and the government’s buyback of Annington homes marks a significant step toward addressing longstanding deficiencies in service family accommodation. This deal, which saves taxpayers £230 million annually, is seen as a “once-in-a-generation” opportunity to rebuild and refurbish military housing.

The government’s defence industrial strategy aims to foster innovation and support small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), enabling them to contribute to the defence sector. By reducing barriers to entry and prioritising British industry, the strategy seeks to enhance regional economic growth while addressing critical gaps in defence manufacturing and technology.

The upcoming Strategic Defence Review (SDR), expected in the spring of 2025, will address capability gaps and outline investments in advanced technologies such as missile systems, counter-drone technology, and precision weapons. These initiatives reflect the government’s commitment to modernising the armed forces and maintaining technological superiority in an era of rapidly evolving threats.

Specific Technology and AI References

Technology and artificial intelligence (AI) were recurring themes during the session, particularly in discussions on counter-drone technology, missile defence, hybrid threats, and the defence industrial strategy. These references highlight the growing importance of advanced technologies in addressing modern warfare challenges.

The role of drones and counter-drone technology was emphasised in a question from Patrick Spencer, who called for investments in precision weapons, DragonFire laser systems, and counter-drone blocking technologies to ensure the British Army remains at the forefront of global military capabilities. Drones have transformed warfare, offering unprecedented surveillance and strike capabilities, but they also pose significant threats that require robust countermeasures. The mention of DragonFire, a directed-energy weapon system, highlights the UK’s focus on cutting-edge technologies to neutralise these threats efficiently and cost-effectively.

Artificial intelligence also emerged as a critical area in defence discussions. Alan Strickland’s question on SME involvement in developing future technologies underscores the importance of fostering innovation in AI-driven systems. These systems, ranging from autonomous vehicles to predictive maintenance tools, are reshaping military operations by improving decision-making, operational efficiency, and situational awareness. Maria Eagle, Minister for Defence Procurement and Industry, emphasised that the defence industrial strategy would support SMEs in contributing to this technological revolution, reducing barriers to entry and fostering a diverse supplier base.

Hybrid threats, particularly those involving undersea infrastructure, were another area where AI and technology play pivotal roles. In response to Harpreet Uppal’s question about Russian “shadow fleet” activities, John Healey confirmed the activation of the Joint Expeditionary Force’s monitoring system. This likely involves AI-enhanced surveillance drones and maritime systems capable of real-time analysis and threat detection. The focus on hybrid threats reflects a broader recognition of the interconnected nature of modern security challenges, blending physical and cyber vulnerabilities.

AI-driven missile defence systems were also discussed, particularly in Rebecca Smith’s question about deficiencies in anti-ballistic-missile defences. AI plays a vital role in these systems, enabling real-time threat assessment and interception prioritisation. Luke Pollard, Minister for the Armed Forces, acknowledged the need to address capability gaps through the upcoming Strategic Defence Review, which will focus on modernising defences against such threats.

The defence industrial strategy further highlights the role of AI and technology in enhancing the UK’s industrial capacity. Dan Carden pointed out the need for transatlantic cooperation to develop industrial capabilities, including AI-enabled systems. Pollard’s response emphasised the importance of partnerships with NATO allies and regional stakeholders to build a robust defence manufacturing base, capable of supporting both UK and allied operations.