George Allison
George Allison is the founder and editor of the UK Defence Journal. He holds a degree in Cyber Security from Glasgow Caledonian University and specialises in naval and cyber security topics. George has appeared on national radio and television to provide commentary on defence and security issues. Twitter: @geoallison
Scottish Government delay procurement of new ships
EXCLUSIVE - Scotland’s marine vessel replacement project plans have shifted from a late-2025 expectation to an open-ended “coming years” timeline, with the official notice updated following UK Defence Journal inquiries.
UK says Arctic defence policy covered by 2025 review
The Ministry of Defence has said the UK’s approach to security in the Arctic and High North is now being addressed through the 2025 Strategic Defence Review, rather than through a standalone update of its 2022 High North strategy.
Babcock teams restore battlefield ambulances in eight weeks
British Army teams have recognised Babcock engineers at Donnington and Ashchurch after two Rapid Battlefield Ambulances were fully regenerated to operational standard under severe time pressure, restoring overseas casualty evacuation capability.
MPs told warship building outside Scotland is difficult
Efforts to recreate the UK’s complex warship manufacturing capability outside Scotland would face major structural and skills barriers, industry representatives have told MPs, underlining the strategic importance of shipbuilding centres on the Clyde and at Rosyth.
UK and Sweden step up Baltic defence cooperation
The UK and Sweden will deepen cooperation on Baltic and High North security, with Defence Secretary John Healey warning that Russia’s renewed military activity in the region demands closer European coordination
UK-led Ukraine force set out, deployment tied to ceasefire
Ministers have defined the mission of a UK- and France-led multinational force for Ukraine, confirming it would only deploy after a cessation of hostilities and subject to a parliamentary vote.
UK confirms entry ranks for Armed Forces Gap Year scheme
Participants in the new Armed Forces Foundation Year will serve at entry-level ranks across all three Services, with the pilot scheme set to launch in 2026 at a cost of £13 million.
UK sets out Project Grayburn rifle replacement to industry
The Ministry of Defence has issued an industry notice expanding concept work on Project GRAYBURN, the long-running effort to replace the SA80, with an emphasis on UK manufacture, multiple variants and defeating modern body armour.
UK and Poland agree deeper missile defence cooperation
The UK and Poland have agreed to deepen cooperation on air and missile defence and expand helicopter training links, as both countries look to strengthen their ability to counter airborne threats.
New tugboats for Faslane will not be built in China
The Ministry of Defence has now confirmed that vessels procured under the Defence Maritime Services programme, including tugs for Faslane, will not be built in China.
