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
MOD outlines £4.7m for National Armaments Director Group
The Ministry of Defence confirmed that no extra costs have been incurred from having the National Armaments Director Group run by an interim head rather than a permanent appointment.
NATO mine countermeasure group wraps Baltic exercise
Exercise Northern Coasts 2025 concluded in Copenhagen on 14 September after two weeks of multinational naval training aimed at strengthening interoperability and security in the Baltic Sea, NATO stated.
Swinney deflects pressure over public contracts sent abroad
At First Minister’s Questions, Scottish Labour leader Anas Sarwar pressed John Swinney to commit that future public contracts for ferries and buses would be awarded to Scottish yards and manufacturers rather than sent overseas.
Healey: Defence spending surge must deliver growth and jobs
Defence Secretary John Healey used his speech at the Defence Investment Summit on 10 September to set out how Britain’s record increase in military spending will be tied directly to industrial reform, exports, and skills.
US approves $567m Sidewinder missile sale to Belgium
Belgium has requested up to 320 AIM-9X Block II Sidewinder tactical missiles, 258 AIM-9X Block II+ missiles, 50 AIM-9X Block II tactical guidance units, and 30 AIM-9X Block II+ tactical guidance units.
China overtakes UK in 2025 global soft power index
China has overtaken the United Kingdom in the annual Brand Finance Global Soft Power Index, ranking second only to the United States, according to the company.
Warship visit signals deeper UK-Philippines defence ties
The Ministry of Defence has confirmed that HMS Richmond, a Type 23 frigate deployed with the UK Carrier Strike Group, has visited Manila as part of efforts to strengthen defence cooperation and expand trade links with the Philippines.
Lochhead stops short on shipbuilding finance
Labour MSP Paul Sweeney pressed the Scottish Government to adopt new measures, but Business Minister Richard Lochhead limited his response to highlighting existing support and ongoing discussions.
Committee warned on UK sub commitments to AUKUS
The Defence Committee has been told that short-term pressures on U.S. and UK submarine fleets could complicate the delivery of AUKUS commitments, particularly the planned Submarine Rotational Force-West in Australia.
NATO chief warns of age of confrontation at West Point
NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte told cadets at the U.S. Military Academy West Point that the Alliance is entering an “age of confrontation” with Russia, China, North Korea and Iran.
