The United Kingdom is under mounting pressure from NATO allies to raise its defence spending to 3.5% of GDP, as part of a broader push to bolster European military capabilities and reassure the United States of the continent’s commitment to transatlantic security.
Diplomatic sources say the proposal, currently being discussed behind closed doors ahead of the NATO summit in Washington next month, is aimed at setting a new benchmark for leading European powers amid rising geopolitical threats, particularly from Russia and in the Indo-Pacific.
The suggested increase, which would represent a significant jump from the UK’s current commitment of just over 2% of GDP, is seen as a necessary step to maintain U.S. confidence in NATO’s shared burden. Washington has repeatedly called for greater defence contributions from its allies, warning that America’s long-standing military support cannot be taken for granted.
“There is a growing sense within NATO that European powers must demonstrate greater resolve — not just politically, but financially,” said a senior NATO official familiar with the discussions.
The UK government has not confirmed whether it will accept the 3.5% target, though Prime Minister Rishi Sunak has previously acknowledged the need to “step up” defence readiness in an increasingly unstable global environment.
Analysts say the UK, already one of NATO’s top spenders, may face domestic political hurdles in justifying such a steep increase, particularly amid ongoing pressures on public services and inflation-related economic concerns.
Defence Secretary James Cartlidge has emphasized the importance of maintaining military readiness and modernizing Britain’s armed forces, but stopped short of committing to a specific figure. “We will continue to invest in defence to meet our global responsibilities and support our allies,” he said.
The call for higher spending comes as NATO prepares to mark its 75th anniversary in July, with unity and burden-sharing expected to dominate the agenda.
Meanwhile, critics warn that pushing for an aggressive increase in military budgets could fuel an arms race and divert resources from critical non-military priorities. However, supporters argue that Europe can no longer afford to rely so heavily on U.S. power.
“The security landscape has changed. The expectation is no longer that the U.S. will lead — but that others will match that leadership,” said Dr. Sophie Morgan, a senior fellow at the Royal United Services Institute (RUSI).
As negotiations continue, the UK faces a strategic choice: strengthen its military role within NATO — or risk weakening its influence in a shifting global order.