UK boosts defense budget by £2.2 billion, reallocating funds from aid and securing jobs.

The UK announced a £2.2 billion boost to its defense budget, increasing spending to nearly 2.4% of GDP for the 2025-2026 fiscal year. The funds will be used for naval ships, military welfare, and emerging technologies, reallocated from international aid. Additionally, a £1.6 billion contract extension with Babcock International secures 400 jobs in Telford. The government aims to reach 2.5% GDP defense spending by 2027, emphasizing defense as an engine for economic growth.