Admiral Sir Tony Radakin, the head of the UK’s armed forces, has warned that the world is entering a “third nuclear age” characterized by unprecedented complexities and mounting threats. In a stark address at the Royal United Services Institute (RUSI) defence think tank, Admiral Radakin highlighted the growing dangers posed by Russia, China, Iran, and North Korea, emphasizing the urgent need for increased defence funding and strategic reform.
Admiral Radakin described the “third nuclear age” as a period of heightened global instability. Unlike the Cold War’s first nuclear age or the disarmament-driven second nuclear age, this new era is marked by “wild threats of tactical nuclear use” from Russia, China’s rapid nuclear expansion, Iran’s non-compliance with nuclear agreements, and North Korea’s unpredictable actions.
He stressed the heightened danger, calling this era “more contested and dangerous than at any point in my career.”
Radakin acknowledged the UK faces only a “remote chance” of a direct attack or invasion by Russia. However, he noted that Russian President Vladimir Putin is acutely aware of Britain’s nuclear deterrent, which acts as a key element of the UK’s defence posture.
“The UK’s investment in renewing nuclear submarines and warheads sends a powerful message to adversaries like Putin,” Admiral Radakin stated. These investments are vital for maintaining Britain’s strategic security and global standing.
Admiral Radakin urged for sustained increases in defence spending, asserting that “the cost of defence and deterrence is always less than the costs that flow from instability and conflict.”
The UK government has pledged to raise defence spending to 2.5% of GDP but has yet to specify a timeline. Critics argue that meeting and exceeding this target will require public support, especially as higher defence allocations could reduce budgets for other essential areas like healthcare and education.
Admiral Radakin’s remarks come ahead of a strategic defence review slated for next year. The review will outline the UK’s military capabilities and future requirements to counter evolving threats.
Admiral Radakin stressed the need for a “clear-eyed” approach to assessing risks, urging both policymakers and the public to recognize the gravity of global threats. “We must understand that there is no longer a peace dividend to enjoy,” he said, referencing the relative stability the West experienced after the Cold War.
Defence Secretary John Healey has reiterated the government’s commitment to rebuilding and modernizing the armed forces. The government has already allocated billions in defence spending and remains focused on addressing deficiencies inherited from previous administrations.
This effort coincides with warnings from Defence Minister Alistair Carns, who noted that a major war could deplete the UK’s military capacity within 6 to 12 months. He emphasized the importance of maintaining robust reserves and preparing for large-scale conflicts.
Admiral Radakin’s speech aligns with Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer’s recent call for Britain to “dig deeper” to defend its national interests. Starmer has warned that the era of post-war ascendancy is over, and the UK must adopt a more pragmatic approach to safeguarding its security.
The speech also addressed the broader geopolitical context, including China’s growing influence, Iran’s destabilizing activities, and North Korea’s erratic behaviour. Admiral Radakin underscored the need for international cooperation, particularly within NATO, to counter these shared challenges.
As the UK faces an increasingly volatile global landscape, Admiral Radakin’s call for increased defence funding and strategic reform underscores the importance of preparedness. From reinforcing nuclear deterrence to addressing conventional military gaps, the UK’s armed forces must adapt to ensure long-term security.
The upcoming strategic defence review will serve as a critical blueprint for modernizing Britain’s defence capabilities, reinforcing its role on the global stage, and safeguarding national interests in the face of evolving threats.
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