3.2 – Global governance: political and economic
3.4 – Power and developments
3.6 – Comparative theories
On 2 June 2025, the UK published its 2025 Strategic Defence Review (SDR), a comprehensive reassessment of national defence priorities typically produced every 5-10 years in to changes in the global security environment. The document outlines the government plans to allocate defence spending, reshape military capabilities, and define Britain’s role on the world stage Beyond being a budgeting exercise, the SDR reflects the UK’s understanding of the threats it faces and the power required to maintain global.
This latest review signifies a shift away from the post9/11 focus on counterterrorism, peacekeeping, and stabilisation missions in regions such as Afghanistan (independently and via NATO) and Mali (through the UN Mission). These missions primarily targeted non-state actors and terrorist groups. Instead, the SDR emphasizes deterrence and preparation for high-intensity conflicts against state adversaries. This change is contextualized by Russia’s war in Ukraine, which has highlighted the fragility of European security, and China’s growing assertiveness in the Indo-Pacific and beyond, challenging international norms. In this environment, the UK ising its role as a serious military capable of with allies and deterring major threats.
SDR proposes a increase in defence, aiming to raise it to 2.5% of GDP by 2027, with a tentative target of 3% by the end of the next Parliament. This funding underpins a broad modernization effort.