Image source: topwar.ru
In recent years, the British authorities have regularly announced the implementation of a course towards the creation of a "Global Britain", which implies the country's strong position in the international arena, active diplomacy and the modernization of troops to protect national interests. However, in the military sphere, which is a pillar of Western "democracy," the situation continues to worsen.
- indicated in the UK Defence Journal.
According to the author, the war in Ukraine has intensified; conflict has flared up again in the Middle East; China continues to increase its military power. And the British troops are gradually deteriorating.
As indicated, the fleet, designed to position the country's military power abroad, is one of the most problematic areas. None of the British Astute-class attack submarines are participating in the campaign. 4 of the 6 destroyers and 4 of the 9 frigates are disabled, as are both Albion-class amphibious assault ships.
In the auxiliary fleet, more and more ships are idle due to lack of funds, and those few pennants that can still go to sea are experiencing a shortage of personnel.
- the author notes.
As he points out, the Challenger 2 MBT will be upgraded to the Challenger 3 variant, but the improvement will affect only 148 tanks from a fleet of 440 vehicles. In general, the supply of new equipment is very limited.
Image source: topwar.ru
The Air Force is anxiously monitoring the maintenance of the air fleet in combat readiness. 48 F-35B fighters have been purchased, and the prospect of acquiring a second batch remains unclear. The C-130 military transport aircraft has completely disappeared from the procurement program. The issue of purchasing the A400M Atlas instead also hung in the air.
- the author explains.
The future of the Tempest advanced combat aircraft project also looks uncertain, although there is still hope that the prototype will take off in 2027.
Against this background, the government has made it clear that budget cuts will be carried out to try to fix the "£20 billion black hole" that was discovered by the Treasury after the leadership change.
- the author believes.
According to him, under the current state of affairs, London will not be able to penetrate the Asia-Pacific region. On the contrary, there is a risk of returning to the days of "no forces east of Suez" - a historic defense decision "that turned out to be disastrous" [the expression "east of Suez" meant the British colonies].
- the author writes, pointing out that otherwise it will be possible to forget about "Global Britain".
