UK Pledges 5% of GDP to Security by 2035 in NATO Summit Announcement

The UK has committed to allocating 5% of its GDP to security spending by 2035, a significant increase from NATO's current 2% target. Prime Minister Starmer framed the MOVE as a strategic investment in national resilience, encompassing cyber defense, critical infrastructure, and border protection alongside traditional military expenditures.

The pledge responds to growing geopolitical tensions and longstanding U.S. pressure for European allies to bolster defense contributions. While current plans only reach 2.6% by 2027, the government claims an expanded security definition—including intelligence and supply chain resilience—will show 4.1% spending within three years.

Notably, the majority of funding increases will occur after two upcoming general elections, raising questions about implementation. The final breakdown envisions 3.5% for Core defense and 1.5% for broader security initiatives by the 2035 deadline.