NATO allies could be set to use Britain's launch vehicles and
space ports, following new work that will see the alliance start
work to rapidly deploy assets to space.
With adversaries attempting to maximise their advantages in
space, the Defence Secretary MP today signed a letter of
intent, which will see NATO allies work closer on government and
commercial space launch capabilities.
Attending his first NATO Defence Ministerial, the Defence
Secretary also signed up to a range of multinational long-term
projects, from virtual training to drone procurement.
Tomorrow and Saturday (Friday 18 October, Saturday 19 October)
the Defence Secretary will attend the G7 Defence Ministers
meeting.
The meeting, hosted by the Italian Presidency of the G7, in
Naples, will see the Defence Secretary meet with his G7 opposite
numbers.
On the margins of the G7, Mr Healey will also attend a meeting of
the Global Combat Air Programme, with his Italian and Japanese
counterparts.
Today's space cooperation announcement will see the UK help
develop NATO's space capabilities.
Known as the STARLIFT programme, it will build space launch
capabilities across the alliance and will see the UK, alongside
our allies and commercial partners, create a network of space
launch capabilities across the alliance.
Defence Secretary MP said:
By developing these cutting-edge technologies, we are setting up
our Armed Forces for the battlefields of the future, and creating
significant opportunities for British industry.
Our Government's commitment to NATO is unshakeable. Together with
our partners, we will ensure the collective security of our
citizens and strengthen our alliance for decades to come.
Virtual training
The UK is today signing a letter of intent to share virtual
simulator training across NATO, allowing Allies to train and work
together without the need for a physical deployment, saving time,
resources and money.
Artillery munitions
The UK has agreed today that NATO will create a single test
network to enable allies to use different munition types, such as
155mm, on various artillery systems. This will ensure greater
flexibility in joint operations.
Drones
The Defence Secretary also confirmed that the UK will take part
in a project to develop cutting-edge drones.
The UK has played a key role in sending thousands of drones to
Ukraine, where we have seen first-hand the vital role they have
played in fighting back against Putin's forces.
NATO allies will work together to develop these unmanned
platforms which will gather intelligence, surveillance and
deliver strike capabilities.
UK participation also helps to integrate the MQ-9B/Protector
uncrewed aircraft capability into the NATO Intelligence,
Surveillance and Reconnaissance Force and defence of the High
North and Arctic region.
The UK's participation in these ambitious projects underline our
unshakeable commitment to NATO.
