Is the UK too reliant on the US for its defence needs? That’s the burning question in Westminster, as MPs probe just how much of Britain’s military spending goes across the Atlantic. With growing concerns over the future of US foreign policy, especially regarding support for Ukraine, the UK government has been pressed on whether it’s time to rethink its defence investments.
Liberal Democrat MP Martin Wrigley put these concerns front and centre, demanding clarity from the Ministry of Defence (MoD). He asked for details on how much of the UK’s defence budget is spent on American-made military equipment and whether there were plans to reduce this dependency, particularly in light of former US President Donald Trump’s remarks about US aid to Ukraine.
But when it came to the numbers, Minister of State for Defence Maria Eagle had little to reveal, stating that “this information is not held in the format requested.” However, she was clear on one thing, the UK’s defence relationship with the US remains solid. “The United States is the United Kingdom’s primary defence and security ally. Our collaboration in defence is mutually beneficial, and we maintain robust working partnerships in the areas of intelligence, nuclear, science and technology, and operations,” she affirmed.
That said, Britain isn’t ignoring the need to strengthen its own defence industry. Eagle pointed to the forthcoming Defence Industrial Strategy, a policy aimed at ensuring the UK maintains its sovereign capability and enhances its domestic defence production while still working closely with allies. The balance, it seems, is to bolster British defence manufacturing without severing its deep-rooted military ties with Washington.
Of course, Trump’s previous comments questioning US support for Ukraine continue to cast a shadow over European security concerns. But despite uncertainty over America’s long-term commitment, the UK is standing firm. Eagle reminded Parliament that since July 2024, Britain has provided over £5.26 billion in military and financial aid to Kyiv, including a £3 billion annual military aid package and a £2.26 billion loan for military spending. In other words, regardless of what happens in Washington, the UK is committed to supporting Ukraine.
As for completely moving away from US defence procurement? That’s not on the table. Eagle reassured MPs that the UK’s economic relationship with the US remains “equitable, balanced, and reciprocal,” highlighting the staggering $1.5 trillion in mutual investment between the two nations. This economic partnership supports over 2.5 million jobs, making it a relationship the UK government is unlikely to walk away from anytime soon.
