Burnham may have to boost defence spending to pass 'Moscow test', says ex-military chief

Former UK Chief of the Defence Staff Admiral Sir Tony Radakin has stated that incoming Prime Minister Andy Burnham will likely have to boost defence spending to pass the so-called 'Moscow test'. This term refers to how the UK appears from Russia's perspective: a strong NATO ally, nuclear power, and partner of the United States. Radakin warned that the UK currently falls short on these commitments, risking harm to relations with NATO allies and the US.

The Defence Investment Plan (Dip), expected to be published this week, has been a source of contention between the Ministry of Defence and the Treasury. New Defence Secretary Dan Jarvis is believed to have secured about £1 billion more than his predecessor John Healey, who resigned after failing to obtain more than £13.5 billion to fill an £18 billion funding gap in the plan, which covers major capital programmes over the next decade.

Allies of Burnham dismissed concerns that he would reopen any deal made by current Prime Minister Keir Starmer, but noted he reserves the right to do so if necessary. Starmer has promised to publish the Dip before the NATO summit on 7 July in Turkey. Burnham could take office on 17 July if no contest arises.

Radakin also highlighted that the UK ranks second from bottom in a NATO league table for meeting capability requirements, a situation he described as unprecedented and in need of resolution. Much of the defence budget goes to nuclear deterrent, accounting for 20% in 2025-26 and rising to 25% in coming years. The Dreadnought nuclear submarine project alone costs £41 billion.