How much more is being spent on defence and will the UK hit Nato's targets?
The UK government has released its Defence Investment Plan, aiming to increase Nato-qualifying defence spending to 2.5% of GDP by 2027. Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer has also expressed an ambition to reach 3% of GDP in the future, aligning with broader international commitments.
Why it matters
Increased military spending reflects shifting geopolitical priorities and the UK's commitment to international security alliances like NATO.
By Ben Chu , Policy and analysis correspondent , Anthony Reuben and Tom Edgington , BBC Verify Published 11 minutes ago The government has published the much-delayed Defence Investment Plan (DIP) and Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer has said the additional spending represents a "huge historic shift for our nation".
The article provides data-driven analysis of government spending plans without editorializing the policy.
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