Defence secretary grant Shapps unveils unprecedented deployment of army, navy, and Raf in response to shifting global dynamics

In a significant move, Britain is set to send 20,000 troops, representing all three branches of the Armed Forces, to participate in Nato’s Steadfast Defender exercises. Defence Secretary Grant Shapps is expected to make this announcement in a major speech at London’s Lancaster House. The exercises, involving 31 nations, mark one of Nato’s largest military drills since the Cold War and are strategically focused on Eastern Europe, aiming to prepare for potential aggression from Russia.

The deployment includes 16,000 British troops equipped with tanks, artillery, and helicopters, reinforcing Nato’s presence in Eastern Europe starting from next month. The Royal Navy will contribute 2,000 sailors across eight warships and submarines, while 400 Royal Marines are designated for deployment to the Arctic Circle. The RAF’s participation will involve the use of F-35B Lightning attack aircraft and Poseidon P-8 surveillance aircraft.

Grant Shapps, in his address, is expected to highlight the evolving geopolitical landscape, emphasizing the need for the UK to adapt to a new era marked by renewed global tensions. He will discuss the end of the “peace dividend,” a period post-Cold War characterized by significant reductions in defence spending. Shapps is anticipated to assert the UK’s commitment to deterring adversaries, leading allies, and defending the nation in the face of emerging challenges.

In addressing the current global context, Shapps is likely to say, “Today our adversaries are busily rebuilding their barriers. Old enemies are reanimated. Battle lines are being redrawn. The tanks are literally on Ukraine’s lawn. And the foundations of the world order are being shaken to their core. We stand at a crossroads.”

The announcement comes at a time of heightened international uncertainty, with recent military strikes against Iran-backed Houthi rebels in Yemen by the US and the UK. Foreign Secretary Lord Cameron commented on the global situation, stating, “It is hard to think of a time when there has been so much danger and insecurity.