UK and Allies Plan £37bn Long-Range Missile System to Strengthen Europe’s Defence

By Blessing Nweke

Twelve countries, including the United Kingdom, are preparing to invest more than £37bn ($50bn) over the next decade in a new long-range missile programme designed to strengthen Europe’s ability to defend itself and deter potential threats.

The initiative, known as Deep Strike, is being led by the UK and aims to provide advanced precision strike capabilities for European allies. Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer said the project would help unite Nato members and ensure the alliance remains secure for years to come.

However, the missile system is not expected to become operational until the 2030s, meaning several years of development and testing will be required before it can be deployed.

The announcement comes as Nato members face increasing pressure to boost defence spending. Former US President Donald Trump has repeatedly urged European allies to contribute more towards their own security, and Nato leaders agreed at last year’s summit to increase defence and security spending to 5% of GDP by 2035.

Sir Keir said the UK was committed to protecting itself and its allies, stating that Europe must work towards creating a stronger and more capable Nato. The British government has already pledged £300bn by 2030 through its Defence Investment Plan.

Ahead of the summit in Ankara, UK officials highlighted concerns over Russia’s military activity, saying Nato aircraft had been deployed more than 700 times to intercept Russian aircraft near allied airspace. The government also said Russian military activity around UK waters had increased by 30%.

Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper said the new missile capability would allow Britain and its allies to strike important military targets and weaken the logistical networks supporting hostile forces.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky also called on allies to provide more air defence systems as Russia continues attacks on Ukraine. Meanwhile, the Kremlin said it would closely monitor the Nato summit, warning that new weapons supplied to Ukraine would not stop Russia from continuing its military objectives.