Ministry of Defence

We protect the security, independence and interests of our country at home and abroad. We work with our allies and partners whenever possible. Our aim is to ensure that the armed forces have the training, equipment and support necessary for their work, and that we keep within budget.



Secretary of State

 Portrait

John Healey
Secretary of State for Defence

Shadow Ministers / Spokeperson
Liberal Democrat
Baroness Smith of Newnham (LD - Life peer)
Liberal Democrat Lords Spokesperson (Defence)

Conservative
James Cartlidge (Con - South Suffolk)
Shadow Secretary of State for Defence

Scottish National Party
Dave Doogan (SNP - Angus and Perthshire Glens)
Shadow SNP Spokesperson (Defence)

Green Party
Ellie Chowns (Green - North Herefordshire)
Green Spokesperson (Defence)

Liberal Democrat
James MacCleary (LD - Lewes)
Liberal Democrat Spokesperson (Defence)
Junior Shadow Ministers / Deputy Spokesperson
Conservative
Baroness Goldie (Con - Life peer)
Shadow Minister (Defence)
Earl of Minto (Con - Excepted Hereditary)
Shadow Minister (Defence)
Mark Francois (Con - Rayleigh and Wickford)
Shadow Minister (Defence)
Ministers of State
Lord Coaker (Lab - Life peer)
Minister of State (Ministry of Defence)
Al Carns (Lab - Birmingham Selly Oak)
Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Ministry of Defence) (Minister for Veterans)
Luke Pollard (LAB - Plymouth Sutton and Devonport)
Minister of State (Ministry of Defence)
Parliamentary Under-Secretaries of State
Louise Sandher-Jones (Lab - North East Derbyshire)
Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Ministry of Defence)
There are no upcoming events identified
Select Committee Inquiry
Wednesday 28th January 2026
Defence in the High North

The inquiry will examine the current and emerging threats in the region. It will ask what the UK’s defence and …

Written Answers
Wednesday 18th March 2026
Cyprus: Military Bases
To ask His Majesty's Government whether they have asked the government of Greece to provide naval protection to UK interests …
Secondary Legislation
Thursday 12th March 2026
Armed Forces and Reserve Forces (Compensation Scheme) (Amendment) Order 2026
This Order amends the Armed Forces and Reserve Forces (Compensation Scheme) Order 2011 (S.I. 2011/517)(“the Principal Order”), which provides for …
Bills
Thursday 15th January 2026
Armed Forces Bill 2024-26
A Bill to continue the Armed Forces Act 2006; to amend that Act and other enactments relating to the armed …
Dept. Publications
Wednesday 18th March 2026
18:00

Ministry of Defence Commons Appearances

Oral Answers to Questions is a regularly scheduled appearance where the Secretary of State and junior minister will answer at the Dispatch Box questions from backbench MPs

Other Commons Chamber appearances can be:
  • Urgent Questions where the Speaker has selected a question to which a Minister must reply that day
  • Adjornment Debates a 30 minute debate attended by a Minister that concludes the day in Parliament.
  • Oral Statements informing the Commons of a significant development, where backbench MP's can then question the Minister making the statement.

Westminster Hall debates are performed in response to backbench MPs or e-petitions asking for a Minister to address a detailed issue

Written Statements are made when a current event is not sufficiently significant to require an Oral Statement, but the House is required to be informed.

Most Recent Commons Appearances by Category
Mar. 16
Oral Questions
Jan. 12
Urgent Questions
Mar. 04
Westminster Hall
Feb. 24
Adjournment Debate
View All Ministry of Defence Commons Contibutions

Bills currently before Parliament

Ministry of Defence does not have Bills currently before Parliament


Acts of Parliament created in the 2024 Parliament

Introduced: 6th November 2024

A Bill to establish, and confer functions on, the Armed Forces Commissioner; to abolish the office of Service Complaints Ombudsman; and for connected purposes.

This Bill received Royal Assent on 3rd September 2025 and was enacted into law.

Ministry of Defence - Secondary Legislation

This Order amends the Personal Injuries (Civilians) Scheme 1983 (“the Scheme”), which makes provision for the payment of pensions and allowances to, or in respect of, civilians who were killed or injured during the 1939-1945 World War.
This Order amends the Armed Forces and Reserve Forces (Compensation Scheme) Order 2011 (S.I. 2011/517)(“the Principal Order”), which provides for benefits to be payable to, or in respect of a person by reason of injury, illness or death caused wholly or partly, by service in the regular or reserve armed forces.
View All Ministry of Defence Secondary Legislation

Petitions

e-Petitions are administered by Parliament and allow members of the public to express support for a particular issue.

If an e-petition reaches 10,000 signatures the Government will issue a written response.

If an e-petition reaches 100,000 signatures the petition becomes eligible for a Parliamentary debate (usually Monday 4.30pm in Westminster Hall).

Trending Petitions
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4,797 Signatures
(2,932 in the last 7 days)
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4,999 Signatures
(63 in the last 7 days)
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7,536 Signatures
(30 in the last 7 days)
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38 Signatures
(27 in the last 7 days)
Petitions with most signatures
Petition Open
7,536 Signatures
(30 in the last 7 days)
Petition Open
4,999 Signatures
(63 in the last 7 days)
Petition Open
4,797 Signatures
(2,932 in the last 7 days)
Petition Open
520 Signatures
(None in the last 7 days)
Ministry of Defence has not participated in any petition debates
View All Ministry of Defence Petitions

Departmental Select Committee

Defence Committee

Commons Select Committees are a formally established cross-party group of backbench MPs tasked with holding a Government department to account.

At any time there will be number of ongoing investigations into the work of the Department, or issues which fall within the oversight of the Department. Witnesses can be summoned from within the Government and outside to assist in these inquiries.

Select Committee findings are reported to the Commons, printed, and published on the Parliament website. The government then usually has 60 days to reply to the committee's recommendations.


11 Members of the Defence Committee
Tanmanjeet Singh Dhesi Portrait
Tanmanjeet Singh Dhesi (Labour - Slough)
Defence Committee Member since 11th September 2024
Derek Twigg Portrait
Derek Twigg (Labour - Widnes and Halewood)
Defence Committee Member since 21st October 2024
Fred Thomas Portrait
Fred Thomas (Labour - Plymouth Moor View)
Defence Committee Member since 21st October 2024
Michelle Scrogham Portrait
Michelle Scrogham (Labour - Barrow and Furness)
Defence Committee Member since 21st October 2024
Jesse Norman Portrait
Jesse Norman (Conservative - Hereford and South Herefordshire)
Defence Committee Member since 21st October 2024
Emma Lewell Portrait
Emma Lewell (Labour - South Shields)
Defence Committee Member since 21st October 2024
Lincoln Jopp Portrait
Lincoln Jopp (Conservative - Spelthorne)
Defence Committee Member since 21st October 2024
Alex Baker Portrait
Alex Baker (Labour - Aldershot)
Defence Committee Member since 21st October 2024
Calvin Bailey Portrait
Calvin Bailey (Labour - Leyton and Wanstead)
Defence Committee Member since 21st October 2024
Ian Roome Portrait
Ian Roome (Liberal Democrat - North Devon)
Defence Committee Member since 28th October 2024
Mike Martin Portrait
Mike Martin (Liberal Democrat - Tunbridge Wells)
Defence Committee Member since 28th October 2024
Defence Committee: Upcoming Events
Defence Committee - Oral evidence
One-off session on the impact of the delay to the Defence Investment Plan on industry
24 Mar 2026, 10 a.m.
At 10:30am: Oral evidence
Samira Braund - Defence Director at ADS
Arnab Dutt OBE - Policy Champion for Procurement and Social Value at Federation of Small Businesses (FSB)
Andrew Kinniburgh - Director-General at Make UK Defence
Mr Fred Sugden - Associate Director, Defence and National Security at techUK
At 11:30am: Oral evidence
Dominic Armstrong - Head of policy and communications at Community Trade Union
Bob King - National Secretary Defence at Prospect
Steve McGuiness - Executive Council Member for Aerospace and Shipbuilding at Unite the Union

View calendar - Save to Calendar
Defence Committee: Previous Inquiries
The Integrated Security, Defence and Foreign Policy Review The Security of 5G SDSR 2015 and the Army inquiry Russia: implications for UK defence and security inquiry Ministry of Defence Annual Report and Accounts 2015–16 inquiry BBC Monitoring inquiry Defence Acquisition and Procurement inquiry Awards for Valour (Protection) Bill inquiry Naval Procurement: Type 26 and Type 45 inquiry NATO Warsaw summit and Chilcot Report Work of the Department 2017 inquiry F-35 Procurement inquiry North Korea inquiry Indispensable allies: US, NATO and UK Defence relations inquiry Defence Acquisition and Procurement inquiry Ministry of Defence Annual Report and Accounts 2016-17 inquiry Locally Employed Civilians inquiry The effects of BAE restructuring on UK Defence inquiry National Security Capability Review inquiry The Royal Marines and UK amphibious capability inquiry The Government’s Brexit position paper: Foreign policy, defence and development: a future partnership paper inquiry Military exercises and the duty of care: follow up inquiry Armed Forces Covenant Annual Report 2016 inquiry UK National Shipbuilding Strategy inquiry The indispensable ally? US, NATO and UK Defence relations inquiry Locally employed interpreters inquiry Trident missile testing inquiry Investigations into fatalities involving British military personnel inquiry SDSR 2015 and the RAF inquiry Defence industrial policy: procurement and prosperity inquiry Military Exercises and the Duty of Care: Further Follow-Up inquiry Evidence from the new Defence Secretary inquiry UK Defence and the Strait of Hormuz inquiry Ministry of Defence Annual Reports and Accounts 2018-19 inquiry Procurement Update inquiry Domestic Threat of Drones inquiry UK Defence and the Far East inquiry Armed Forces Covenant Annual Report 2018 inquiry Work of the Service Complaints Ombudsman inquiry UK Response to Hybrid Threats inquiry INF Treaty withdrawal inquiry Ministry of Defence Annual Report and Accounts 2017-18 inquiry Departmental Priorities – Post-NATO Summit inquiry Work of Defence Equipment and Support inquiry Work of the Chief of Defence Staff inquiry Mental Health and the Armed Forces, Part Two: The Provision of Care inquiry Future anti-ship missile system inquiry Statute of limitations – veterans protection inquiry UK Military Operations in Mosul and Raqqa inquiry Mechanised Infantry Vehicle Procurement inquiry Modernising Defence Programme inquiry Departmental priorities inquiry Armed forces and veterans mental health inquiry Armed Forces Covenant Annual Report 2017 inquiry Global Islamist Terrorism inquiry MoD Annual Report and Accounts 2012-13 Work of the Chief of the Defence Staff MoD Supplementary Estimates 2012-13 Operations in Afghanistan Strategic Defence and Security Review & the National Security Strategy The Armed Forces Covenant in Action? Part 1: Military Casualties Operations in Libya Developing Threats to Electronic Infrastructure The Armed Forces Covenant in Action? Part 2: Accommodation Defence Implications of Possible Scottish Independence Impact on UK Defence of the proposed merger of BAE systems and EADS MoD Main Estimates 2013-14 Towards the next Defence and Security Review: Part One Armed Forces Covenant in Action? Educating Service Personnel Children Armed Forces Covenant in Action? Part 4: Service Personnel Education Defence Acquisition Defence and cyber-security UK Armed Forces Personnel and Legal Framework for Future Operations Future Army 2020 Future Maritime Surveillance Lariam inquiry Publication of the SDSR UK military operations in Syria and Iraq inquiry Shifting the Goalposts? Defence Expenditure and the 2% pledge Flexible Response? An SDSR checklist of potential threats Towards the next defence and security review: Part Three Ministry of Defence Annual Report and Accounts 2013-14 The situation in Iraq and Syria Decision-making in Defence Policy Future Force 2020 Armed Forces (Services Complaints and Financial Assistance) Bill MoD Main Estimates 2014-15 Inquiry Defence Growth Partnership Ministry of Defence Mid Year Report Towards the next Defence and Security Review: Part Two: NATO Afghanistan - Camp Bastion Attack Defence Materiel Strategy Afghanistan The Armed Forces Covenant in Action Part 5: Military Casualties Pre-appointment hearing: Service Complaints Commissioner Defence contribution to the UK’s pandemic response Progress in delivering the British Army’s armoured vehicle capability Foreign Involvement in the Defence Supply Chain The Integrated Review – Threats, Capabilities and Concepts Defence and Climate Change National Shipbuilding Strategy Refresh Armed Forces Readiness Future Aviation Capabilities Defence in the Grey Zone Women in the Armed Forces: Follow-Up The UK contribution to European Security The Armed Forces Covenant AUKUS Afghan Data Breach and Resettlement Schemes Defence in the High North NATO, US and UK Defence Relations National security and investment Beyond endurance? Military exercises and the duty of care Defence in the Arctic MoD support for former and serving personnel subject to judicial processes Defence in the Arctic (Sub-Committee) Armed Forces Covenant Annual Report 2018 Defence industrial policy: procurement and prosperity Departmental Priorities – Post-NATO Summit Domestic Threat of Drones Evidence from the new Defence Secretary Global Islamist Terrorism INF Treaty withdrawal UK Military Operations in Mosul and Raqqa Future anti-ship missile system Statute of limitations – veterans protection Mental Health and the Armed Forces, Part Two: The Provision of Care Work of Defence Equipment and Support Ministry of Defence Annual Reports and Accounts 2018-19 European Defence Industrial Development Programme Modernising Defence Programme Military Exercises and the Duty of Care: Further Follow-Up Procurement Update Work of the Service Complaints Ombudsman UK Defence and the Far East UK Defence and the Strait of Hormuz UK Response to Hybrid Threats Work of the Chief of Defence Staff

50 most recent Written Questions

(View all written questions)
Written Questions can be tabled by MPs and Lords to request specific information information on the work, policy and activities of a Government Department

10th Mar 2026
To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, what steps his Department is taking to ensure that original equipment manufacturers pay their supply‑chain suppliers within 30 days; what reporting and transparency requirements apply to foreign prime contractors in respect of their payment practices; and what guidance his Department issues to original equipment manufacturers that seek to delay payments to suppliers in order to manage cash flow for overseas parent companies.

The Ministry of Defence conducts regular spot checks on all contracts in scope of PPN 021: Payment Spot Checks in Public Sub-Contracts to ensure compliance with the 30-day payment term across the supply chain. The results of these checks are published online, and appropriate action would be taken against suppliers failing to meet the payment requirements of the Procurement Act 2023.

All suppliers and their subcontractors are encouraged, through tender documentation, to commit to good payment practices by registering with the Fair Payment Code. This demonstrates their commitment to timely and fair payment practices.

Luke Pollard
Minister of State (Ministry of Defence)
12th Mar 2026
To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, what assessment has he made of the adequacy of 2 Force Protection Wing’s ORCUS counter-UAS equipment on preventing drone attacks on RAF Akrotiri.

While ORCUS+ is not optimised to defeat One-Way Attack UAS, it offers an enhanced ability to detect, track and identify, increasing a kinetic system’s ability to defeat but no system can be 100% effective. This is why our defences in the Eastern Mediterranean now include Typhon and F-35 jets, air defence and counter-drone units, Wildcat and Merlin helicopters, and a further 400 air defence personnel are currently deployed to protect British lives and interests.

Al Carns
Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Ministry of Defence) (Minister for Veterans)
10th Mar 2026
To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, what assessment has he made of the risk the DF-21D missile poses to Royal Navy aircraft carriers.

As part of its routine responsibilities, the Ministry of Defence conducts assessments of the military capabilities of other states. To protect operational security and safeguard national defence interests, the results of these assessments are not made public.

Al Carns
Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Ministry of Defence) (Minister for Veterans)
10th Mar 2026
To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, what assessment he has made of how the battlefield experience and technological innovations developed by Ukrainian defence forces and industry could inform the United Kingdom’s own defence capabilities and operational readiness.

The Ministry of Defence continually assesses how Ukrainian battlefield innovation can inform the UK's own capabilities. The conflict has shown the need to accelerate the learn-adapt cycle, with concepts moving from design to battlefield use within weeks.

The UK is seeking to identify lessons driven by rapid collection and analysis of frontline data. Forward technical expertise and open dialogue with operators will allow industry to innovate and scale production more quickly.

There is acknowledgement of the importance of integrating UAS with traditional fires rather than seeing them as replacements. Ukraine's experience also highlights that operational surprise remains achievable through robust operational security and deception; the need for resilient Integrated Air and Missile Defence built on multiple effectors; and the imperative to train for contested and degraded electromagnetic environments.

Al Carns
Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Ministry of Defence) (Minister for Veterans)
10th Mar 2026
To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, whether his Department is taking steps to help ensure the defence sector can learn from Ukraine’s operational experience in countering drones, missile threats and electronic warfare.

The Ministry of Defence continually assesses how Ukrainian battlefield innovation can inform the UK's own capabilities. The conflict has shown the need to accelerate the learn-adapt cycle, with concepts moving from design to battlefield use within weeks.

The UK is seeking to identify lessons driven by rapid collection and analysis of frontline data. Forward technical expertise and open dialogue with operators will allow industry to innovate and scale production more quickly.

There is acknowledgement of the importance of integrating UAS with traditional fires rather than seeing them as replacements. Ukraine's experience also highlights that operational surprise remains achievable through robust operational security and deception; the need for resilient Integrated Air and Missile Defence built on multiple effectors; and the imperative to train for contested and degraded electromagnetic environments.

Al Carns
Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Ministry of Defence) (Minister for Veterans)
10th Mar 2026
To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, whether the Royal Navy will contribute an Astute-class attack submarine on Operation Firecrest.

Detail on Operation Firecrest can be found at the following link: https://www.gov.uk/government/news/uk-carrier-strike-group-to-deploy-to-north-atlantic-to-keep-uk-safe I am unable to comment further at this time to do so would compromise the security of our forces and effectiveness of operations. Further detail about Operation Firecrest will be provided in due course.

Al Carns
Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Ministry of Defence) (Minister for Veterans)
10th Mar 2026
To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, which T45 Daring-class ship is scheduled to deploy on Operation Firecrest as part of the HMS Prince of Wales Carrier Strike Group.

Detail on Operation Firecrest can be found at the following link: https://www.gov.uk/government/news/uk-carrier-strike-group-to-deploy-to-north-atlantic-to-keep-uk-safe I am unable to comment further at this time to do so would compromise the security of our forces and effectiveness of operations. Further detail about Operation Firecrest will be provided in due course.

Al Carns
Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Ministry of Defence) (Minister for Veterans)
10th Mar 2026
To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, when HMS Prince of Wales is scheduled to deploy on Operation Firecrest.

Detail on Operation Firecrest can be found at the following link: https://www.gov.uk/government/news/uk-carrier-strike-group-to-deploy-to-north-atlantic-to-keep-uk-safe I am unable to comment further at this time to do so would compromise the security of our forces and effectiveness of operations. Further detail about Operation Firecrest will be provided in due course.

Al Carns
Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Ministry of Defence) (Minister for Veterans)
11th Mar 2026
To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, which T23 is scheduled to deploy on Operation Firecrest as part of the HMS Prince of Wales Carrier Strike Group.

Detail on Operation Firecrest can be found at the following link: https://www.gov.uk/government/news/uk-carrier-strike-group-to-deploy-to-north-atlantic-to-keep-uk-safe I am unable to comment further at this time to do so would compromise the security of our forces and effectiveness of operations. Further detail about Operation Firecrest will be provided in due course.

Al Carns
Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Ministry of Defence) (Minister for Veterans)
3rd Mar 2026
To ask His Majesty's Government whether they have asked the government of Greece to provide naval protection to UK interests in Cyprus in the absence of Royal Naval vessels in the Mediterranean.

The Government has not asked the government of Greece to provide naval protection to UK interests on the island of Cyprus.

Lord Coaker
Minister of State (Ministry of Defence)
9th Mar 2026
To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, whether DragonFire will be installed on HMS Dragon.

DragonFire is a cutting-edge Laser Directed Energy Weapon system that remains in its demonstration and evaluation phase. Under current plans, the DragonFire system will commence delivery in 2027.

Luke Pollard
Minister of State (Ministry of Defence)
9th Mar 2026
To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, pursuant to the answer of 11 November 2025 to Question 87342 on Chagos Islands: Sovereignty, whether there will be a public report on how the 5% NATO target is met.

The UK's performance against the NATO spending targets will continue to be reported directly to NATO in the usual way. There are no plans to change this long-standing process.

Luke Pollard
Minister of State (Ministry of Defence)
11th Mar 2026
To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, by which date is HMS Dauntless scheduled to complete her current Fleet Time Support Period.

HMS Dauntless is presently engaged in her Fleet Time Support Period in line with the Royal Navy’s planned maintenance cycle. In accordance with established practice, the Royal Navy does not routinely comment on the detailed operational programme of its vessels

Al Carns
Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Ministry of Defence) (Minister for Veterans)
9th Mar 2026
To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, whether he plans to deploy HMS Anson to the Middle East.

The Ministry of Defence does not comment on the tasks or plans for individual submarines for reasons of national security.

Al Carns
Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Ministry of Defence) (Minister for Veterans)
9th Mar 2026
To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, whether he plans to authorise any changes to the deployment of HMS Anson.

The Ministry of Defence does not comment on the tasks or plans for individual submarines for reasons of national security.

Al Carns
Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Ministry of Defence) (Minister for Veterans)
10th Mar 2026
To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, what is HMS Ansons' scheduled departure from Australia.

The Ministry of Defence does not comment on the tasks or plans for individual submarines for reasons of national security.

Al Carns
Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Ministry of Defence) (Minister for Veterans)
9th Mar 2026
To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, what discussions has he had with (a) his United States counterparts and (b) the United States military on the drone attack at RAF Akrotiri.

Both the Defence Secretary and Defence Officials remain in regular contact with US counterparts on a range of topics to ensure coherence and alignment between our two nations including operational matters.

Al Carns
Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Ministry of Defence) (Minister for Veterans)
9th Mar 2026
To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, which building at RAF Akrotiri was struck by the attack drone on 2 March 2026.

The device struck a hangar.

Al Carns
Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Ministry of Defence) (Minister for Veterans)
9th Mar 2026
To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, if he will list the counter drone capabilities that will be deployed to Cyprus.

We do not comment on specifics, however, the Government has been increasing the counter-drone capability in Cyprus since January, through the addition of 400 personnel, Typhoon and F-35 jets, air defence missiles, and radar. HMS Dragon is on the way to the region, which will provide additional capability. We will keep the situation under constant review, but I cannot say more than this for operational security reasons.

Al Carns
Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Ministry of Defence) (Minister for Veterans)
9th Mar 2026
To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, whether the Royal Marines will deploy any sub-units on Operation Firecrest.

Detail on Operation Firecrest can be found at the following link: https://www.gov.uk/government/news/uk-carrier-strike-group-to-deploy-to-north-atlantic-to-keep-uk-s… I am unable to comment further at this time to do so would compromise the security of our forces and effectiveness of operations. Further detail about Operation Firecrest will be provided in due course.

Al Carns
Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Ministry of Defence) (Minister for Veterans)
9th Mar 2026
To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, if the preparation to deploy HMS Dragon for deployment to the eastern Mediterranean is funded from the Special Reserve.

In her statement to the House on 9 March, the Chancellor confirmed that she had approved access for the Ministry of Defence to the special reserve to deploy additional capabilities in the middle east.

Al Carns
Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Ministry of Defence) (Minister for Veterans)
9th Mar 2026
To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, whether the additional preparation work to enable another Daring-class Royal Navy ship to replace HMS Dragon in its role as flagship of the NATO Standing Naval Maritime Group 1 will be funded from the Special Reserve.

In her statement to the House on 9 March, the Chancellor confirmed that she had approved access for the Ministry of Defence to the special reserve to deploy additional capabilities in the middle east.

Al Carns
Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Ministry of Defence) (Minister for Veterans)
10th Mar 2026
To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, what steps his Department is taking to support collaboration between UK technology companies and Ukrainian defence and dual-use technology innovators.

The Secretary of State for Defence is committed to strengthening collaboration between Ukrainian and British defence innovators.

In cooperation with trade association ADS, the UK has delivered seven successful Trade Missions to Ukraine, bringing together UK industry and likeminded European partners to discuss opportunities for long-term cooperation and investment, and to promote greater collaboration with defence industrial companies inside Ukraine.

This month, I led the largest trade mission, with the UK welcoming five European partners and a record 35 UK companies from primes to SMEs, offering a range of innovative solutions.

On the first anniversary of the 100 Year Partnership (16 Jan 2026) it was announced that a new business centre will open in Kyiv this year to ensure Britain’s cutting-edge defence industry and innovators can step up their work to equip Ukraine’s Armed Forces. This facility will deliver jobs at home and bring Ukrainian and UK defence industries closer than ever while embedding the lessons from the battlefield.

Last year we announced that the UK will manufacture and jointly develop cutting-edge military equipment with Ukrainian industry through a groundbreaking new technology sharing agreement. This tech sharing agreement is called Programme Lyra.

Luke Pollard
Minister of State (Ministry of Defence)
10th Mar 2026
To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, what assessment his Department has made of the potential economic and industrial merits to the UK of strengthening partnerships with Ukraine’s defence innovation and technology sector.

The Secretary of State for Defence is committed to strengthening collaboration between Ukrainian and British defence innovators.

In cooperation with trade association ADS, the UK has delivered seven successful Trade Missions to Ukraine, bringing together UK industry and likeminded European partners to discuss opportunities for long-term cooperation and investment, and to promote greater collaboration with defence industrial companies inside Ukraine.

This month, I led the largest trade mission, with the UK welcoming five European partners and a record 35 UK companies from primes to SMEs, offering a range of innovative solutions.

On the first anniversary of the 100 Year Partnership (16 Jan 2026) it was announced that a new business centre will open in Kyiv this year to ensure Britain’s cutting-edge defence industry and innovators can step up their work to equip Ukraine’s Armed Forces. This facility will deliver jobs at home and bring Ukrainian and UK defence industries closer than ever while embedding the lessons from the battlefield.

Last year we announced that the UK will manufacture and jointly develop cutting-edge military equipment with Ukrainian industry through a groundbreaking new technology sharing agreement. This tech sharing agreement is called Programme Lyra.

Luke Pollard
Minister of State (Ministry of Defence)
10th Mar 2026
To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, how many Lightweight Multirole Missiles his Department has ordered since 5 July 2024.

I am withholding this information for reasons of safeguarding operational security.

Luke Pollard
Minister of State (Ministry of Defence)
10th Mar 2026
To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, how many Advanced Short Range Air-to-Air Missiles his Department has ordered since 5 July 2024.

I am withholding this information for reasons of safeguarding operational security.

Luke Pollard
Minister of State (Ministry of Defence)
10th Mar 2026
To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, how many Land Ceptor missiles his Department has ordered since 5 July 2024.

I am withholding this information for reasons of safeguarding operational security.

Luke Pollard
Minister of State (Ministry of Defence)
10th Mar 2026
To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, how many Sea Viper missiles his Department has ordered since 5 July 2024.

I am withholding this information for reasons of safeguarding operational security.

Luke Pollard
Minister of State (Ministry of Defence)
10th Mar 2026
To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, what is the complete list of current project names being undertaken by the Ministry of Defence.

The Ministry of Defence undertakes many hundreds of projects and programmes across the organisation. Information about the most strategically important and complex of these is published each year in the National Infrastructure and Service Transformation Authority (NISTA) annual report.

Luke Pollard
Minister of State (Ministry of Defence)
10th Mar 2026
To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, what assessment has he made of the potential merits of a) deconflicting and b) combining Project Shrinker with Project Cairns.

Project CAIRNS is currently a pre-concept project and as such formal consideration of systems and specifications has not yet taken place.

Project SHRINKER is a Defence procurement project. For reasons of operational security, I cannot provide any further details.

Luke Pollard
Minister of State (Ministry of Defence)
10th Mar 2026
To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, what steps he has taken to strengthen collaboration between Ukrainian, British and European defence technology innovators.

The Secretary of State for Defence is committed to strengthening collaboration between Ukrainian, British and European defence innovators. In cooperation with trade association ADS, the UK has delivered seven successful Trade Missions to Ukraine, bringing together UK industry and likeminded European partners to discuss opportunities for long-term cooperation and investment, and to promote greater collaboration with defence industrial companies inside Ukraine.

This month, I led the largest trade mission, with the UK welcoming five European partners and a record 35 UK companies from primes to SMEs, offering a range of innovative solutions.

Luke Pollard
Minister of State (Ministry of Defence)
10th Mar 2026
To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, what initiatives his Department is part of that aim to foster cooperation between Ukrainian defence innovators and the UK and European industrial and technology ecosystems.

The Secretary of State for Defence is committed to fostering collaboration between Ukraine, British and European industry. In cooperation with trade association ADS, the UK has delivered seven successful Trade Missions to Ukraine, bringing together UK industry and likeminded European partners to discuss opportunities for long-term cooperation and investment, and to promote greater collaboration with defence industrial companies inside Ukraine.

This month, I led the largest trade mission, with the UK welcoming five European partners and a record 35 UK companies from primes to SMEs, offering a range of innovative solutions.

Last year we announced that the UK will manufacture and jointly develop cutting-edge military equipment with Ukrainian industry through a groundbreaking new technology sharing agreement. This tech sharing agreement is called Programme Lyra.

Luke Pollard
Minister of State (Ministry of Defence)
10th Mar 2026
To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, if he will make an assessment of the potential merits of joint UK–EU–Ukraine research and development programmes in areas such as autonomous systems, counter-drone technologies and missile defence.

The Secretary of State for Defence continues to work closely with the Government of Ukraine and European allies on the sharing of knowledge and insight around autonomous systems, counter-drone technologies and missile defence whose technologists and armed forces are constantly evolving capabilities to address a variety of threats from Russia.

Luke Pollard
Minister of State (Ministry of Defence)
10th Mar 2026
To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, what assessment he has made of the potential economic and security impacts for the UK defence sector of increases in cooperation with Ukraine’s defence innovation ecosystem.

The Secretary of State for Defence continues to work closely with the Government of Ukraine on cooperation between the UK and Ukraine defence sectors. We are building a sustained defence industrial partnership between the UK and Ukraine which will develop industrial capacity while supporting UK and Ukrainian security.

The 100 Year Partnership between the UK and Ukraine facilities the rapid pursuit of sustainable production to create a dynamic ecosystem of defence innovation. We will carry out joint defence capability projects and encourage the establishment of joint defence enterprises, strengthening our defence capabilities and ensuring joint arms exports to foreign markets.

Luke Pollard
Minister of State (Ministry of Defence)
10th Mar 2026
To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, what discussions he has had with European partners on strengthening cooperation with Ukraine in defence innovation and dual-use technology development.

This March, I led the seventh and largest Trade Mission to Ukraine. The mission brought together government and industry officials from the UK, Europe, and Ukraine to discuss opportunities for long-term cooperation and investment, and to promote greater collaboration with defence industrial companies inside Ukraine.

This week [17 March 2026], the UK and Ukraine signed an enhanced security and defence industrial declaration, which strengthens collaboration between Ukrainian and British defence innovators. This latest step in the 100 Year Partnership recognises the growing role of advanced drone capabilities and data to help protect military forces, defence infrastructure and national security.

Luke Pollard
Minister of State (Ministry of Defence)
10th Mar 2026
To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, what steps his Department is taking to support UK companies seeking to collaborate with Ukrainian defence and dual-use technology innovators.

The Secretary of State for Defence is committed to strengthening collaboration between Ukrainian and British defence innovators.

In cooperation with trade association ADS, the UK has delivered seven successful Trade Missions to Ukraine, bringing together UK industry and likeminded European partners to discuss opportunities for long-term cooperation and investment, and to promote greater collaboration with defence industrial companies inside Ukraine.

This month, I led the largest trade mission, with the UK welcoming five European partners and a record 35 UK companies from primes to SMEs, offering a range of innovative solutions.

Last year we announced that the UK will manufacture and jointly develop cutting-edge military equipment with Ukrainian industry through a groundbreaking new technology sharing agreement. This tech sharing agreement is called Programme Lyra.

On the first anniversary of the 100 Year Partnership (16 Jan 2026) it was announced that a new business centre will open in Kyiv this year to ensure Britain’s cutting-edge defence industry and innovators can step up their work to equip Ukraine’s Armed Forces. This facility will deliver jobs at home and bring Ukrainian and UK defence industries closer than ever while embedding the lessons from the battlefield.

Luke Pollard
Minister of State (Ministry of Defence)
10th Mar 2026
To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, what support his Department provides to UK companies seeking to supply innovation-based defence technologies to Ukraine.

The Secretary of State for Defence is committed to supporting UK companies in supplying innovation-based technologies to Ukraine, boosting high-skilled British-based jobs and meeting Ukraine's urgent needs in its fight against Russia's illegal invasion.

In cooperation with trade association ADS, the UK has delivered seven successful Trade Missions to Ukraine, bringing together UK and Ukrainian industry to discuss opportunities for long-term cooperation and investment, and to promote greater collaboration with defence industrial companies inside Ukraine.

Last year we announced that the UK will manufacture and jointly develop cutting-edge military equipment with Ukrainian industry through a groundbreaking new technology sharing agreement. This tech sharing agreement is called Programme Lyra.

On the first anniversary of the 100 Year Partnership (16 Jan 2026) it was announced that a new business centre will open in Kyiv this year to ensure Britain's cutting-edge defence industry and innovators can step up their work to equip Ukraine's Armed Forces. This facility will deliver good jobs at home and bring Ukrainian and UK defence industries closer than ever while embedding the lessons from the battlefield.

Luke Pollard
Minister of State (Ministry of Defence)
10th Mar 2026
To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, what assessment he has made of the adequacy of the level of the UK’s readiness for war.

As set out in the 2025 Strategic Defence Review, we are increasing national warfighting readiness to deter threats to UK and our interests. This includes transforming the Armed Forces to ensure they are more lethal, reversing the 14 years of hollowing out and underfunding this government found when it came into office.

Luke Pollard
Minister of State (Ministry of Defence)
9th Mar 2026
To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, what steps his Department is taking to mobilise private finance for the development of defence technology, a) in the start-up sector and b) from European investors.

The Strategic Defence Review 2025 set out Defence’s role in seeding innovation and growth to keep the Integrated Force at the forefront of warfare. To deliver this, we established the UK Defence Innovation (UKDI) with a £400M ring-fenced annual budget to fund and scale UK-based companies.

UKDI provides a bespoke, strategic service, and capital for high-growth potential UK and allied SMEs, helping them attract private co-investment into defence innovation. As of October 2025, £9 million in Innovation Loan funding has helped 11 successful SMEs raise an additional £29 million in private finance, and 42% of the 72 businesses supported to date have secured £85.4 million in follow-on investment.

To support European and international investor engagement, the Ministry of Defence partners with the National Strategic Security Investment Fund and the NATO Innovation Fund to leverage opportunities for the UK and provide targeted engagement for defence and security SMEs.

We continue to break down barriers and open new avenues for innovation and technology funding through the Defence Finance and Investment Strategy which will be published this spring.

Luke Pollard
Minister of State (Ministry of Defence)
10th Mar 2026
To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, what assessment his Department has made of the potential economic benefits to the UK industrial base by fostering closer cooperation with EU defence initiatives.

The Ministry of Defence is dedicated to ensuring that defence is an engine for growth across the UK. The Security and Defence Partnership agreed with the European Union in May last year demonstrates this Government’s commitment to enhancing European security, fostering economic growth, and reinforcing NATO.

We will continue to collaborate with the EU and its Member States on defence and security, entering agreements only when they align with the national interest and deliver value for money to taxpayers.

This partnership, alongside closer cooperation with EU defence initiatives, will strengthen NATO, enhance European security, ensuring the continent is as safe as it needs to be.

Luke Pollard
Minister of State (Ministry of Defence)
12th Mar 2026
To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, whether the Royal Navy’s Phalanx CIWS is authorised to use lethal force.

As with all Armed Forces equipment capable of delivering lethal effect, the use of Phalanx is governed by strict Rules of Engagement. Internal directives relating to the use of weapons systems are operationally sensitive and are not disclosed.

Al Carns
Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Ministry of Defence) (Minister for Veterans)
12th Mar 2026
To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, which directive within the Ministry of Defence authorises the use of the Royal Navy’s Phalanx CIWS in a fully automated capacity.

As with all Armed Forces equipment capable of delivering lethal effect, the use of Phalanx is governed by strict Rules of Engagement. Internal directives relating to the use of weapons systems are operationally sensitive and are not disclosed.

Al Carns
Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Ministry of Defence) (Minister for Veterans)
10th Mar 2026
To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, what his proposed timetable is for publishing the Defence Investment Plan.

As the Defence Secretary has outlined to the hon. Gentleman a number of times, we will publish it as soon as we can, but our aim is to ensure decisions in the Defence Investment Plan (DIP) are robust and support the development of both current and future capabilities, helping to drive the transformation of our Armed Forces described in the Strategic Defence Review.

The DIP will end the hollowing out and underfunding of our Armed Forces that we inherited.

Luke Pollard
Minister of State (Ministry of Defence)
10th Mar 2026
To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, what steps he has taken to procure a Land-Based Phalanx Weapon System to counter incoming a) rockets, b) artillery, c) mortars and d) drones.

Integrated Air and Missile Defence investments will be prioritised appropriately against the threat as part of the future Integrated Force. Work to deliver the Strategic Defence Review recommendations, including on Integrated Air and Missile Defence, will be prioritised appropriately against the assessed threat picture as part of the future Integrated Force and will be set out in the forthcoming Defence Investment Plan.

Luke Pollard
Minister of State (Ministry of Defence)
10th Mar 2026
To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, when is HMS Bangor due to complete its refit.

HMS BANGOR is not in refit; the ship is undergoing structural repairs following the ship's recovery from deployed operations. These are currently scheduled to have been completed by the end of April 2026.

Luke Pollard
Minister of State (Ministry of Defence)
10th Mar 2026
To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, what is the full scope of Project Talon.

Project Talon seeks a maritime Counter-UAS capability able to detect, track, identify and defeat airborne threats. Further information can be found at this link - https://www.contractsfinder.service.gov.uk/notice/716f2056-c004-45bd-83f0-503ea349b8aa?origin=SearchResults&p=1

Luke Pollard
Minister of State (Ministry of Defence)
10th Mar 2026
To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, how many large-scale brigade-level live exercises have been conducted by the armed forces in the previous five years; and what assessment he has made of the potential impact of those exercises on operational readiness.

Over the past five years, the British Army, Royal Marine Commandos, and Royal Air Force have participated in 12 large-scale brigade-level live exercises, alongside multiple multinational training operations.

Al Carns
Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Ministry of Defence) (Minister for Veterans)
10th Mar 2026
To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, what steps his Department takes to help ensure that overseas‑owned original equipment manufacturers keep work in the UK supply chain in the event of delays or pauses to defence programmes.

The Defence Industrial Strategy sets out the commitment to make the UK a defence industrial leader by 2035, ensuring the UK becomes Europe’s leading defence exporter and the most attractive country in the world to grow a defence business. By reducing regulatory barriers, supporting our small and medium sized enterprises together with the work of our Defence Supply Chain Capability Programme, we are fostering closer collaboration between the Ministry of Defence and industry, helping shape the market, and embedding resilience by design into our supply chains.

Luke Pollard
Minister of State (Ministry of Defence)
10th Mar 2026
To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, what assessment he has made of the role of Ukrainian defence technology innovation in strengthening NATO partners’ capabilities against drone and ballistic missile threats.

The Secretary of State for Defence continues to work closely with the Government of Ukraine and NATO partners on the sharing of knowledge and insights about drone and missile threats whose technologists and armed forces are constantly evolving capabilities to address a variety of threats from Russia.

Luke Pollard
Minister of State (Ministry of Defence)