…Since the end of June 2017, a secret report has been circulating NATO headquarters in Brussels. It highlights and expresses deep concern over a lack of readiness, going into detail at what lies at the heart of NATO’s biggest problems. There are shortcomings of organisation and mobilisation. Logistical concerns run through the arteries of the report. The ability for rapid reinforcement is under risk by a shortage of things such as low-loaders for tanks, train cars for heavy equipment and even bridges too frail to handle heavy battle tanks. The status of the Response Force – which would be the first arrival force combating Russia after being alerted – would be unable to sustain its positions and roles if war broke out…
But in reality, the UK armed forces have been in steady decline for many years. The army is now numbered around just 80,000 regular soldiers. US Lieutenant General Ben Hodges, commander of the US Army in Europe, has voiced concerns about further British defence cuts. The Royal Navy and Royal Air Force have been deemed to be at the edge of capacity by General Sir Richard Barrons, the former commander of the Joint Forces Command. The Royal Marines are set to be cut by one thousand soldiers, while the Ministry of Defence is hiring more backroom staff. Läs artikel