Britain to play crucial role in new long-range missiles to protect NATO | UK | News

Britain has announced a crucial role in the development of advanced long-range missiles. This will be done in collaboration with European allies.

According to a recent Ministry of Defense press release, Defense Secretary John Healey confirmed Britain’s participation in the European Long-range Strike Approach program at a meeting of NATO defense ministers in Brussels.

The programme, which involves a partnership between Britain, France, Germany, Italy and Poland, aims to strengthen Europe’s defense systems by 2030.

The development of advanced long-range missiles will strengthen NATO’s collective air defense and strengthen the alliance’s security.

This announcement comes amid heightened concerns about global security and the increasing importance of NATO’s eastern flank, especially in light of continued Russian aggression in Ukraine.

As part of Britain’s wider commitment to strengthen NATO’s eastern defenses, Healey also signed a new bilateral defense roadmap with Estonia, reaffirming Britain’s willingness to put its NATO allies on the frontline to support.

Under the deal, Britain will keep thousands of troops from the army’s 4th Brigade on high alert, ready to be quickly deployed to Estonia in the event of a crisis.

These troops will be equipped with advanced military hardware, including Challenger 3 tanks and Boxer armored vehicles.

They will be based in Estonia as part of NATO’s forward defense policy.

Healey said: “As global threats increase, Britain’s unwavering commitment to NATO has never been more important.

“We are increasing our support to Estonia, with thousands of troops ready to move quickly to the Russian border.”