FT: Northern Europe Plans to Boost Defense Cooperation to Deter Russia

As reported by LB.ua citing the Financial Times, UK Chief of the Defence Staff Admiral Richard Knighton stated that Britain is lagging behind other European countries in recognizing the threat posed by Russia. Knighton noted that Moscow is increasingly turning to targeted assassinations, sabotage, and cyberattacks, warning that the current period is the most dangerous of his adult life.

Strengthening the Joint Expeditionary Force

Amid rising security risks, members of the UK-initiated Joint Expeditionary Force (JEF)—which includes the Netherlands, the Baltic states, and the Nordic countries—plan to deepen practical military cooperation. The initiative will span naval forces, aviation, and ground troops. A primary objective of the coalition will be deterring Russian submarines to protect shipping lanes in the North Atlantic.

• The agreement is scheduled to be signed aboard the British aircraft carrier HMS Prince of Wales.
• The UK aims to increase defense spending to 3% of GDP by 2030, requiring an additional 11 billion pounds annually.
• Norway's procurement of British Type 26 anti-submarine frigates for 10 billion pounds was cited as an example of successful bilateral defense cooperation.

Defense Spending and Public Dialogue

Knighton emphasized that Britain must catch up with European allies geographically closer to Russia who feel the aggression more acutely. He supported calls to prepare military personnel for a potential conflict and urged an honest conversation with citizens regarding the necessity of boosting defense budgets. The new JEF agreement will be formalized aboard the HMS Prince of Wales.