The UK government is making a huge investment of over £5 billion to boost military technology and strengthen national security. This funding focuses on autonomous systems like drones and advanced Directed Energy Weapons (DEW), including the cutting-edge DragonFire laser. These investments aim to keep UK troops and warships safe, support jobs, and make the UK a leader in military innovation within NATO, following lessons learned from the conflict in Ukraine.
Major Investment in Autonomous Systems and Directed Energy Weapons
More than £4 billion of the funding is dedicated to autonomous systems such as drones, which will enhance the accuracy and power of UK Armed Forces. Nearly £1 billion is allocated to Directed Energy Weapons, including the DragonFire laser. DragonFire is set to become the first high-power laser weapon in service from any European country, with the Royal Navy’s Type 45 destroyer expected to be fitted with it by 2027.
These new weapons will offer fast, cost-effective defence options that can shoot down targets like drones at the speed of light, reduce collateral damage, and lower dependence on expensive missile ammunition.
The Strategic Defence Review and Future Transformation
The Strategic Defence Review (SDR) emphasises the urgent need to shift towards more autonomous and uncrewed systems. Over the next five years, the UK plans to greatly increase the use of such technology and invest in novel weapons like DEWs to transform its defence capabilities.
This investment is part of a broader effort to rebuild and modernise the UK Armed Forces, reversing years of decline and preparing for future threats. It follows earlier announcements including building new attack submarines, acquiring thousands of new long-range weapons, and upgrading military housing and technology.
Economic Growth and Job Creation
Defence Secretary John Healey stressed that this investment represents the biggest technological advance in UK defence in decades. It not only strengthens the military but also supports British industry and creates hundreds of skilled jobs across the country.
Chancellor Rachel Reeves highlighted the link between national defence and economic strength, noting that innovation in defence will drive long-term growth, productivity, and job creation as part of the government’s Plan for Change.
Currently, Directed Energy Weapons support around 200 high-skilled jobs, with an additional 300 new roles expected in the Ministry of Defence and industry.
New Drone Centre and Lessons from Ukraine
To speed up development and deployment of small uncrewed air systems, a new Drone Centre will be created. This centre will provide expertise, manage legislative issues, and coordinate best practices for drones across all three branches of the UK military.
Ukraine’s use of drones in conflict has been a key lesson, showing the importance of these systems in modern warfare. The UK aims to apply this knowledge quickly to improve its battlefield capabilities.
Consultation and Collaboration
The Strategic Defence Review process involved extensive consultation, with thousands of responses from individuals, organisations, companies, and military experts. This broad engagement helped shape the ambitious plan to transform the UK’s defence and maintain its security at home and abroad.
With over £5 billion invested in autonomous systems and Directed Energy Weapons, the UK is set to become a leader in military innovation. These investments will protect troops, create jobs, boost exports, and support the country’s position in NATO. Guided by lessons from Ukraine and the Strategic Defence Review, this plan is a vital part of the government’s Plan for Change, combining defence strength with economic growth for a safer and stronger UK.
