European Generals Express Concerns Over Shrinking British Army’s Readiness for Conflict with Russia

European generals have voiced concerns about the British Army’s ability to face a large force like Russia in a high-intensity conflict due to its dwindling numbers.

Troop Numbers at Historic Low

The British Army’s troop numbers have decreased significantly, with the current count at just over 73,000 soldiers, marking the smallest size in 300 years.

This decline is attributed to more soldiers leaving the army than being recruited.

European Generals’ Worries

A European general expressed to The Sun that allies are worried about the British Army’s capability in the event of a conflict.

They emphasized the importance of having a large number of troops, citing the ongoing conflict in Ukraine as an example of the need for mass to combat the Russian army.

Decline Despite Defense Spending Commitments

Another unnamed European general highlighted that despite the UK’s commitments to increase defense spending, the British Army continues to decline.

They pointed out that recent announcements have not significantly changed this trend.

Importance of the UK’s Nuclear Deterrent

Top military officials have noted that the UK’s most critical defense asset to NATO is its nuclear deterrent.

This is seen as a reliable factor, especially with the uncertainty surrounding the upcoming American election and its potential impact on NATO.

Rishi Sunak’s Defense Spending Pledge

Prime Minister Rishi Sunak has pledged to increase defense spending to 2.5% of GDP and introduce national service for 18-year-olds if re-elected.

However, he has also upheld plans to reduce the army’s manpower to 73,000 by 2025, a target that is nearly met after a significant drop from around 102,000 in 2006.

Potential for Further Reductions

Analysis conducted in January indicated that troop numbers could decrease even more.

A former senior US general noted that while the UK remains America’s closest ally, its military capabilities have diminished over the past few decades.

Call for Increased Recruitment

Michael Clarke, the former director-general of the Royal United Services Institute (RUSI), stressed the need for the British Army to improve its recruitment efforts and increase troop numbers to at least 100,000.

Warning from the Chief of the General Staff

General Sir Patrick Sanders, Chief of the General Staff, has previously warned that British citizens might need to be called up to fight in the event of a war with Russia.

He emphasized the need for ministers to mobilize the nation in the face of a broader conflict with Russia amid its invasion of Ukraine.

Politics

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