The First Sea Lord, General Sir Gwyn Jenkins, has acknowledged that the Royal Navy is not yet prepared for war. Speaking to Swedish newspaper Svenska Dagbladet, he stated that while the navy can conduct advanced operations and would fight if ordered, it is not as ready as it should be. He said, 'We have work to do, and I am completely dedicated to the mission.'
Sir Gwyn's admission follows criticism from the United States, which has been conducting Operation Epic Fury in Iran. US Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth attacked the 'big, bad Royal Navy' for not sending vessels to support the operation. President Donald Trump also criticised the UK, suggesting it should either buy jet fuel from the US or seize it from the Strait of Hormuz, which remains under Iranian control.
The First Sea Lord noted that other NATO allies are also lagging in war readiness. He emphasised that the UK is not alone in this regard, stating, 'I also see that among our allies in NATO. I am not trying to scare people and together we have incredible resources.'
NATO allies have committed to a new target of investing 5 per cent of GDP annually on defence and security by 2035, up from the previous 2 per cent target. Last year, all 32 alliance members met the 2 per cent expenditure target, with Europe and Canada increasing their defence spending.
