Igbo Radio

A recent report has raised alarms about potential vulnerabilities in the UK’s air defense systems, with experts warning that the nation could be exposed to long-range ballistic missile threats in the coming years. According to The Times, defense insiders have expressed concerns that within 15 years, advanced ballistic missiles could have the capability to strike Britain from anywhere in the world.

A strategic defense review, led by an independent panel commissioned by the British government, is reportedly set to highlight the urgent need for increased investment in missile defense infrastructure. Sources have indicated that NATO officials are also growing increasingly frustrated with what they perceive as the UK’s insufficient contributions to collective defense efforts aimed at protecting Europe from potential long-range missile strikes.

The report suggests that NATO’s forthcoming "Capability Target 2025" document will call for a significant boost in funding for surface-based air defense (SBAD) systems. This investment would aim to safeguard critical infrastructure across the UK, including military installations and nuclear power facilities.

Unnamed defense experts cited by The Times have warned of an increasing threat posed by nations such as China, Russia, and Iran, which are rapidly advancing their ballistic missile capabilities. A senior defense source stated, "The UK faces significant risks now, but within 15 years, ballistic missiles may be capable of reaching British soil from any location globally."

There are additional concerns that non-state actors and militant groups could acquire long-range missile technology, posing a potential threat to major cities like London. Defense officials have also flagged the vulnerability of UK military assets overseas, including naval operations in conflict zones such as Yemen, where British warships could be targeted by advanced weaponry supplied to militant groups.

The security risks extend to UK military bases abroad, particularly in Cyprus, which analysts have noted are increasingly susceptible to missile strikes from hostile entities.

Geopolitical tensions have further intensified following recent warnings from Russian President Vladimir Putin. In response to reports of Ukrainian attacks on Russian territory using Western-supplied weaponry, Putin stated that Moscow reserves the right to retaliate against countries involved in such operations. He hinted at the possibility of an asymmetrical response, including supplying advanced arms to nations or groups opposed to Western interests.

As the global arms race continues to escalate, defense experts are urging the UK government to take proactive measures to close gaps in its missile defense strategy. The coming months are expected to bring intensified discussions on how best to protect the nation from the evolving threat landscape.