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The chief executive of BAE Systems, Dr Charles Woodburn, has issued a stark warning about the UK’s preparedness for foreign threats, stressing that complacency must end. In an exclusive interview with the BBC, Woodburn described the current risk level as the greatest he has witnessed in his lifetime. While he acknowledged the recent increase in defence funding, he emphasized that much greater investment will be required to meet the government’s aim of allocating 3.5% of GDP to defence by 2035.
Woodburn highlighted significant changes in modern warfare, pointing to the advanced use of autonomous technology by countries like Russia and Ukraine. These nations have become highly skilled in deploying drones and counter-drone tactics, signaling a shift that the UK must keep pace with. He expressed concern about the near future use of autonomous lethal weapons, cautioning that adversaries may not adhere to the UK’s policy requiring human control over such systems. According to him, understanding and developing capabilities to counter these evolving threats is essential for deterrence.
At the Farnborough International Air Show, BAE Systems introduced a full-scale model of the Brontanax, an uncrewed Collaborative Combat Aircraft designed to operate alongside manned fighters. This approach could dramatically enhance firepower while cutting costs to roughly 20% of those required for piloted jets. Though optimistic about autonomous systems, Woodburn reaffirmed that conventional naval vessels, aircraft, and submarines remain critical components of defence, noting that potential adversaries continue to develop large platforms supplemented by unmanned technologies—a combination he believes offers a winning formula.
Woodburn also addressed challenges facing the UK’s military readiness, referencing recent criticism from figures such as the First Sea Lord Sir Gwyn Jenkins, and mocking remarks from US officials about the Royal Navy’s capabilities. He defended BAE’s response times, explaining that mobilization depends on Ministry of Defence directives. Additionally, Woodburn welcomed the appointment of former Defence Secretary John Healey as Chancellor, noting Healey’s understanding of defence requirements despite the complex financial pressures he faces. Woodburn aligned with Healey’s view that additional spending beyond current increases will be necessary to achieve stated defence goals.
Lastly, reflecting on the ethical dimension of his work, Woodburn stressed that deterrence is their primary mission. He said, “The best thing we can do is to deter. Deterring war means our brave men and women have the best kit they could possibly have. Our mission as a business is to protect those who protect us and we take that incredibly seriously.” This sentiment underscores BAE Systems’ role in equipping the UK’s armed forces amid a changing landscape of global security threats
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