Lord Sedwill, former UK National Security Adviser and Cabinet Secretary, has warned that London may require an 'Iron Dome' missile defence system to protect against potential attacks. In an interview with The Standard, he emphasised the need for Britain to bolster its defences in an increasingly dangerous world, noting that while a nationwide system may be impractical, protecting key cities and military facilities is feasible.
The comments follow Iran's failed missile strike on the joint UK-US Diego Garcia military base in the Chagos Islands, which sparked concerns that Tehran could target London. US Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth and Israeli officials have both claimed that Iran's missile range now extends to European capitals, including London, urging the UK to increase support for military action against Iran.
Lord Sedwill stressed the importance of rapid investment in Britain's armed forces to defend the homeland and Nato allies. While the immediate focus is on Iran, defence experts consider Russia the greatest long-term threat due to its 'grey warfare' tactics, including targeting UK underwater cables and infrastructure.
Former Nato chief Lord Robertson described the situation as a 'rude wake-up call' for the government to boost defence spending, accusing the Treasury of 'vandalism' and criticising a gap between Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer's rhetoric and action. The government has committed to spending 2.5% of GDP on defence by 2027, increasing to 3% in the next parliament and 3.5% by 2035.
Downing Street rejected claims that national security is in peril, stating that it is delivering on the Strategic Defence Review to meet threats. Cabinet ministers maintain that any missile fired from Iran at the UK would be intercepted by Nato defences over eastern Europe.
