The UK has reaffirmed its commitment to bolstering NATO’s eastern flank by signing a new defence roadmap with Estonia and launching cooperation on missile defence. This move comes as Defence Secretary John Healey signed the joint declaration at a NATO Defence Ministers meeting in Brussels today.
The agreement will see the UK’s 4th Brigade held at high readiness, with thousands of troops prepared to deploy rapidly to defend NATO’s eastern front alongside those already stationed in Estonia. This deployment is aimed at strengthening the alliance’s ability to respond to potential threats from Russia.
Enhancing Missile Defence and Long-Range Capabilities
At the Brussels meeting, Defence Secretary Healey also announced plans to enhance cooperation on missile defence. The UK will spearhead the new ‘DIAMOND’ initiative, which seeks to integrate NATO’s air and missile defence systems across Europe. The UK has also committed to developing new long-range missiles as part of a European partnership, which includes France, Germany, Italy, and Poland. This collaboration aims to bolster NATO’s collective defence capabilities and support the UK’s defence industry.
Deploying Advanced Military Assets
The UK’s 4th Brigade, specializing in terrain similar to that in Estonia, will deploy advanced tanks such as the Challenger 3 and Boxer armoured vehicles. In times of crisis, the brigade will be supported with helicopters, short-range air defence systems, and guided multiple rocket launchers. These measures reaffirm the UK’s commitment to maintaining a robust presence on NATO’s eastern border.
Statements from Defence Secretary John Healey
Speaking at the NATO meeting, Defence Secretary John Healey said, “As global threats increase, the UK’s unshakeable commitment to NATO has never been more important. We are boosting our support for Estonia, with thousands of troops ready to deploy rapidly to the Russian border.
He added, “These announcements reinforce our contribution to the NATO alliance for decades to come. We are working closely with partners to develop advanced defensive and offensive capabilities to protect our citizens whilst boosting industry, jobs, and growth in the UK.
Deepening UK-Estonia Defence Ties
The newly signed roadmap between the UK and Estonia will deepen their defence partnership, particularly against Russian aggression. The UK will maintain its permanent battlegroup in Estonia, which will include the deployment of the Challenger 3 tanks and other advanced armoured vehicles.
NATO’s DIAMOND Initiative and Long-Range Strike Approach
The UK-led DIAMOND initiative aims to enhance the coordination of NATO’s air and missile defence systems across Europe. The programme seeks to improve integration, enabling European allies to respond more effectively to missile threats. The UK will also participate in the European Long-range Strike Approach programme, developing new long-range missile capabilities with its European allies. This project is expected to play a crucial role in Europe’s defence by the 2030s.
Defence Secretary’s Meetings and NATO Commitments
During his visit to NATO headquarters, Healey met with his Estonian counterpart to sign the roadmap, reaffirmed NATO’s commitment to supporting Ukraine, and held bilateral talks with several allies, including Norway and Turkey. He also participated in an E3 Minister’s meeting with France and Germany.
Today’s announcement underscores the UK’s ‘NATO-first’ policy and its long-term commitment to supporting the alliance’s collective defence and security.
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