Keir Starmer warned MoD faces £28 BILLION shortfall despite plans to boost spending

Prime Minister Keir Starmer warned on 8 January 2026 that the UK Ministry of Defence faces a £28 billion shortfall over the next four years, even as the government plans to increase defence spending. The shortfall, highlighted by the MoD’s annual report, means the armed forces will struggle to meet commitments amid rising tensions between London and Moscow over the Ukraine conflict. Starmer said the shortfall could force cuts to equipment, training and overseas deployments unless additional funds are secured. The warning comes as the UK seeks to maintain a credible deterrent while balancing fiscal constraints. Defence experts urge urgent budget adjustments to avoid compromising national security.