Former UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson has urged Labour leader Keir Starmer to increase defense spending to 3% of GDP. Johnson made the statement during a speech on February 24, arguing that rising global security threats require immediate action.
“The world is becoming more dangerous, and we must respond,” Johnson said. He criticized the UK’s current defense budget, warning that it is insufficient to meet growing challenges.
The UK’s defense spending is currently around 2.3% of GDP, slightly above NATO’s 2% target. Johnson believes this level is too low, especially as Russia’s war in Ukraine continues.
NATO allies such as Poland and the United States have increased their defense budgets. Johnson warned that the UK risks falling behind if it does not follow suit.
Johnson specifically called on Starmer to commit to higher military funding if Labour wins the next general election. He argued that national security must remain a top priority regardless of political leadership.
“We cannot afford to be complacent while our enemies grow stronger,” Johnson said. He pointed to Russia’s aggression, China’s military expansion, and ongoing conflicts in the Middle East as key concerns.
The Conservative government previously pledged to raise defense spending to 2.5% of GDP by 2030. Johnson insists that this target is not ambitious enough and that an immediate increase to 3% is necessary.
Military analysts say a higher defense budget would allow the UK to modernize its armed forces. The country has committed to expanding its naval and air capabilities, including new aircraft carriers and fighter jets.
The Ministry of Defence has faced budget shortfalls in recent years. Equipment delays, rising costs, and recruitment challenges have affected military readiness.
Starmer has not ruled out increasing defense spending but has avoided committing to a specific target. His party has focused on economic stability and cost-of-living issues ahead of the election.
Some members of the Labour Party support increasing military funding. Others argue that social services, such as healthcare and education, should be prioritized instead.
Public opinion on defense spending remains divided. Some Britons support a stronger military, while others believe funds should be directed toward domestic programs.
The UK has been a key supporter of Ukraine, providing weapons, training, and intelligence support. However, some experts warn that sustained military aid could strain the country’s own resources.
Britain’s armed forces have experienced troop reductions in recent years. The army is set to shrink to its smallest size since the Napoleonic Wars due to cost-cutting measures.
A higher defense budget could help address these reductions by improving recruitment and expanding military capabilities. Some officials believe that without more funding, the UK’s military strength will continue to decline.
Johnson’s push for increased defense spending comes ahead of the next general election. Security and foreign policy are expected to be major issues during the campaign.
Other European countries have announced major defense investments. Germany, for example, has committed to increasing its military budget despite internal political debates.
The UK remains one of NATO’s most capable military forces. However, defense experts warn that without additional investment, the country’s ability to respond to threats could weaken.
The government’s current budget plans aim to balance security needs with economic constraints. Starmer’s approach to defense spending will likely be scrutinized as the election approaches.
Johnson’s call for a 3% defense budget reflects a growing debate over national security. The UK must decide whether to prioritize military expansion or focus on domestic challenges.
For now, the question of higher defense spending remains unresolved. The coming months will determine whether Starmer adopts Johnson’s recommendation or pursues a different path.
