Strategic Defence Review to Address Growing Global Threats
Universal Defence and Security Solutions (UDSS) proudly announces the appointment of Co-Chair General Sir Richard Barrons to the UK Government's Strategic Defence Review (SDR).
This crucial initiative aims to bolster the nation's defence capabilities in response to an increasingly dangerous and volatile global landscape.
The review, overseen by Defence Secretary John Healey, will be led by former NATO Secretary General Lord Robertson. Supporting Lord Robertson are Dr Fiona Hill, former European and Russian affairs adviser to President Donald Trump, and General Sir Richard Barrons of UDSS. The review's final report is scheduled for publication in the first half of 2025, highlighting the urgency of addressing the UK's defence needs.
Objectives of the SDR
The review will comprehensively assess the current state of the armed forces, the threats the UK faces, and the capabilities required to counter these threats.
Key areas of focus include:
- Recruitment and Training: Enhancing the pipeline for skilled personnel.
- International Partnerships: Strengthening alliances and collaborative defence efforts.
- Modernisation: Leveraging advanced technologies to maintain a competitive edge.
Lord Robertson emphasised the need for "fresh thinking" to identify and tackle the nation's security challenges effectively.
General Sir Richard Barrons brings extensive expertise to the review, following a distinguished military career he is now at the forefront of technological advancements in defence through his teams’ work with defence and security consultancy UDSS. His currency with ‘boots on the ground’ and the wider forces community is extensive, including significant work on this year’s Kerslake Commission into Armed Forces accommodation and his role as an ambassador for a leading UK veterans' charity.
General Barrons said, “It is an honour to work on the review and to help prepare and shape our military for the challenges of the next century. It is imperative that we equip our forces to tackle international threats head-on to keep the British people safe and secure.”
Call for Submissions
The government is inviting input from a wide range of stakeholders, including retired and serving members of the Armed Forces, the defence industry, MPs, and international partners, particularly within NATO. Submissions are open until the end of September and can be made via email to: SDR-Secretariat@mod.gov.uk
Commitment to Defence Spending
On Monday, 15th July, UK Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer emphasised the necessity of the "root and branch review" to prepare the UK for a more volatile world. He reaffirmed his commitment to increasing defence spending to 2.5% of GDP, a goal that will be outlined in the review’s roadmap.
Sir Keir Starmer stated, “I promised the British people I would deliver the change needed to take our country forward, and I promised action, not words. That’s why one of my first acts since taking office is to launch our Strategic Defence Review. We will ensure our hollowed-out armed forces are bolstered and respected, that defence spending is responsibly increased, and that our country has the capabilities needed to ensure the UK’s resilience for the long term.”
The SDR represents a critical step in addressing the UK's defence challenges and ensuring national security in an increasingly unpredictable world. With the expertise of leaders like General Sir Richard Barrons and comprehensive stakeholder engagement, the review aims to set a clear and effective path forward.
General Sir Richard’s independent appointment as a principal advisor to the SDR underscores UDSS's pivotal role in shaping the future of UK defence.
UDSS is a premier global defence consultancy, providing expert defence and security advice, assistance, and solutions to governments and businesses worldwide. Leveraging unparalleled UK Defence Knowledge, UDSS benefits the UK Ministry of Defence (MoD), its allies, and the businesses that support them.
Our distinction lies in our expansive network of over 700 experts, the largest assembly of former UK military, MoD, and Civil Service personnel, covering the five critical military domains: Land, Maritime, Air, Digital, and Space.
In close collaboration with the UK MoD, the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO), and the Department of Business and Trade (BDT), UDSS delivers cutting-edge UK Defence knowledge. Our services encompass modernisation, innovation, and acquisition, driving advancements in global security and defence capabilities.