Tories pledge £10bn 'Britannia Shield' air defence system
The UK Conservative Party has proposed a £10bn air defence system called 'Britannia Shield' to protect national infrastructure from drone and missile threats. The plan aims to integrate radar, command systems, and interceptors, though it has faced criticism from the current government regarding the party's past defence record.
Why it matters
It highlights the growing political focus on national security and air defence capabilities in response to increasing geopolitical tensions and Russian drone incursions.
Image source, AFP/Getty Images Image caption, The UK's existing Sky Sabre air defence system, seen in 2022 at the Royal Artillery's change of colours parade at Baker Barracks, Thorney Island
The Conservatives have pledged to invest in a new missile and drone defence system if voted into government at the next election.
Branding it "Britannia Shield", the party said it would spend up to £10bn over a decade on an integrated network of radar, command and control systems, as well as interceptor missiles.
In a speech to the Conservative Party conference on Tuesday, shadow defence secretary James Cartlidge will describe it as "the most significant upgrade to UK air defence for generations".
In response, Defence Secretary Wes Streeting said the Tories had an "abysmal record" of defending Britain during their 14 years in power, adding: "They owe Britain an apology, not another lecture."
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