Introduction to the Deep Precision Strike Project
Twelve countries, including the UK, have announced plans to invest over £37bn ($50bn) in a new long-range missile system designed to enhance Europe's defense capabilities over the next decade. This initiative, known as the Deep Precision Strike project, was unveiled by No 10 and is scheduled for discussion at the Nato summit held in Ankara, Turkey.
Sir Keir Starmer, attending his final Nato summit as prime minister, is expected to face criticism from US President Donald Trump for not presenting a clear plan to meet the agreed Nato target of 3.5% of GDP on defense spending by 2035, a commitment made by nearly all member states last year.
Details of the Missile Programme and Leadership
On Wednesday, the prime minister will lead discussions with approximately a dozen other leaders regarding the missile programme. The Deep Precision Strike missile is described as one of Nato's most advanced weapons, capable of striking targets nearly 200 miles (300 km) away with high precision, with potential range extensions up to 1,250 miles.
Sir Keir stated that the UK-led initiative would "help bring European allies together to keep Nato safe for years to come".
Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper emphasized the project's significance in the current geopolitical climate, describing it as "part of a recognition that we're in a more dangerous world." Speaking from Ankara on BBC Breakfast, she added,
"This is about how we make sure we have a stronger Europe within a stronger Nato."
However, like many military projects currently in development, the Deep Precision Strike system is not expected to be operational until the 2030s.
Context of US and Nato Defense Spending
In June, US Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth announced a six-month review of the US military presence in Europe. President Trump has consistently urged Nato members to increase their defense spending. At last year's Nato summit, alliance members agreed to allocate 5% of GDP to defense and security by 2035.
Sir Keir expressed his commitment, saying he was "determined" to ensure the safety of the UK and its allies, adding: "We must step up to deliver a stronger, more European Nato."
The UK government has already pledged £300bn by 2030 under the Defence Investment Plan.
Security Challenges and Nato's Response
President Trump’s stance remains influential as Nato addresses the challenge of rearming Europe. Defence Secretary Hegseth has renewed criticism of Nato and announced a review of US forces in Europe. Meanwhile, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has pressed Nato for air defense systems amid intensified Russian strikes.
At the summit, Sir Keir is expected to highlight the threat Russia poses to the UK and Nato. The government reported that Nato fighter jets have intercepted Russian aircraft approaching allied airspace over 700 times and that Russian military activity near UK waters has increased by 30%.
Sir Keir is anticipated to emphasize that while Nato does not seek confrontation with Russia, it must be prepared to defend every ally.
Foreign Secretary Cooper added,
"With deep precision strike capability, the UK and our allies will be able to hit high value military targets and the logistical engines that drive armies, deterring any aggressor and strengthening our mutual security.
At Ankara we are sending a clear message to [Russian] President [Vladimir] Putin; Nato is stronger, more European and ready to defend our citizens against the long-term threat posed by him and the Russian state."
Ukraine's Position and Russian Response
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky used his speech at the summit on Tuesday to urge allies to provide the air defense systems Ukraine urgently requires to counter escalating Russian attacks.
Ukraine has increased its own long-range drone and missile strikes against Russia, targeting oil refineries and military installations, resulting in significant fuel shortages and power outages.
"Ukraine's Armed Forces have proved that the effective use of long-range systems can have game-changing impacts on the battlefield, giving the Armed Forces the ability to degrade enemy forces far behind the frontline," Number 10 stated.
"Ukrainian long-range strikes, such as those on key logistics hubs, have significantly impacted Russia's ability to sustain their offensives."
Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov commented on Tuesday that Russia, which invaded Ukraine in 2022, would closely monitor the Nato summit in Ankara.
He said that no new weapons supplied to Kyiv by Nato could prevent Russia from continuing its military operation in Ukraine until its objectives are met.
Peskov remarked,
"In the context of preparations for this summit we heard a great many statements concerning our country.
To our regret, these were not statements about constructive engagement and dialogue but rather statements of a confrontational nature."
"Settlement of this conflict through political and diplomatic means remains preferable" for Russia, Peskov added.
