Russia ‘Immediate’ Danger, China ‘Persistent Challenge’: UK Defence Review

UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer’s government is set to publish a strategic defence review on Monday, warning of an “immediate and pressing” danger from Russia, and describing China as a “sophisticated and persistent challenge”.

The strategic defence review also warns that Britain is entering a “new era of threat”, with new technologies like drones and artificial intelligence reshaping warfare more deeply than ever before.

The 130-page report was prepared by advisers to Starmer and led by Lord Robertson, former UK Labour Defence Secretary and NATO Secretary-General, The Guardian reported.

The review will highlight how Russia continues to pose a direct threat to both the UK and Europe. Drawing heavily on lessons from the war in Ukraine, it suggests that Moscow’s cyberattacks and covert activities represent the most serious threat since the Cold War.

Although China is not described as an enemy, the report raises concerns about its growing global influence, its cooperation with Russia, and its long-term strategic ambitions. It characterises China as a “sophisticated and persistent challenge” to Western interests. The review also identifies Iran and North Korea as “regional disruptors.”

The review comes ahead of the NATO summit in The Hague later this month, where allies are expected to agree on higher defence targets. NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte has said the group is considering a goal of spending 5% of GDP on defence, with at least 3.5% going to core military needs.

The review does not say the UK is at war with Russia but warns of a blurring of lines between peace and conflict. It may also touch on the size of the British Army amid reports of internal debate over whether to increase troop numbers beyond the current target of 73,000.

This is the first full strategic defence update since the UK’s 2021 integrated review, which was refreshed in 2023 after Russia invaded Ukraine.