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The Independent UK

National

Millie Cooke

Starmer’s defence investment plan revealed at last – but critics say it still falls short

Sir Keir Starmer

Sir Keir Starmer 's government has allocated £14.5bn to Britain's defence investment plan (DIP), an increase of £1bn following former defence secretary John Healey 's resignation over funding concerns.
The new funding package, negotiated by Defence Secretary Dan Jarvis , still falls significantly short of the £28bn defence officials previously deemed necessary.
The DIP, set to be published, will prioritise accelerating Britain's drone capabilities, reflecting lessons from conflicts in Ukraine and Iran .
This strategic shift includes replacing new destroyer warships with 'hybrid' vessels designed to act as command hubs for drones.
Andy Burnham, widely expected to succeed Sir Keir as Prime Minister, may revisit the DIP to further increase defence spending , potentially by reallocating welfare funds and favouring British-based defence companies.

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Starmer finds an extra £1bn for defence as long-delayed spending plan finally revealed

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