FT: UK defence spending for 2027–2028 to be lower than expected

The United Kingdom’s planned spending on the armed forces and military equipment in 2027–2028 is expected to be lower than previously projected, the Financial Times reports, citing data from the UK Ministry of Defence.

The ministry estimates that core defence spending will account for around 2.13 per cent of GDP, down from 2.2 per cent forecast in September. 

The publication notes that the adjustment reflects revised projections of the country’s economic size for 2027–2028, rather than changes to the ministry’s funding.

FT highlights that the UK’s relative reduction in defence spending contrasts sharply with the approach of European allies, who are seeking to increase their defence budgets following warnings from the United States.

Core defence spending covers funding for the armed forces and military equipment, while a broader definition also includes personnel costs, pensions, and intelligence. The UK government’s forecast for total defence expenditure in 2027–2028 remains unchanged at 2.6 per cent of GDP, according to the report.

By Khagan Isayev