From CBS News · Frank Andrews · · 50s
U.K. Arctic defenses leave NATO exposed to Russia
British lawmakers warn that gaps in maritime forces leave critical infrastructure vulnerable as Russia seeks military dominance in the Arctic.
In brief
British lawmakers warn that gaps in maritime forces leave critical infrastructure vulnerable as Russia seeks military dominance in the Arctic. British lawmakers say the U.K. lacks sufficient Arctic defenses, leaving NATO and critical infrastructure exposed to Russian military threats. Originally reported by CBS News.
Parliamentary report warns of Arctic gaps
The Commons Defense Committee published a report Thursday saying glaring gaps in the U.K.'s Arctic defenses leave it and NATO vulnerable to Russian attacks.
Submarines and warships too scarce
The committee found shockingly low availability of Royal Navy submarines and warships, leaving critical infrastructure like underwater cables and energy supplies exposed to potential Russian attacks.
“Russia can then use the ice to conceal and protect its own submarines while threatening NATO sea lanes, U.K. critical infrastructure and the U.K.'s nuclear deterrent.”
Defense spending must start now
Conservative shadow minister Stuart Anderson said time is as important as money. To deter war, the U.K. must spend now rather than delay until it is too late.
“To deter war we must be ready for it, that means spending money now, not kicking the can down the road until it's too late.”
The key point
British lawmakers say the U.K. lacks sufficient Arctic defenses, leaving NATO and critical infrastructure exposed to Russian military threats.
