In this episode of Facing Coming Storms, we explore how the British Army is preparing for growing global threats. I’m joined by Nicholas Drummond, a former Army officer and KNDS defence consultant, straight from the Royal United Services Institute’s Land Warfare Conference. We discuss the Army’s bold plans to double its lethality by 2027 and align with NATO’s focus on countering Russia in Eastern Europe. Key conference themes include fighting smarter, boosting readiness, and strengthening resilience, despite a Strategic Defence Review that sets big goals but delays funding until 2027.

We address the Army’s shrinking size, recruitment challenges, and the need for a stronger reserve force. Comparing Britain to Poland’s rocket buildup and Estonia’s bold defence strategies, we look at its role in a divided European defence landscape, with the US urging a focus on Europe over Asia. With honest talk on leadership, technology, and avoiding complacency, this episode reveals the Army’s efforts to adapt to an uncertain future.

Key moments

02:27 - Themes from RUSI Land Warfare Conference 

08:08 - British Army’s Two-Division Strategy 

10:09 - NATO’s Third Age and European Focus 

24:08 - U.S. Military’s Social Contract 

30:10 - Equipment Modernization Needs 

37:33 - Cultural Shifts in Military Leadership 

39:40 - Importance of NCO Education 

47:41 - Autonomous Ground Vehicles 

50:34 - Russia’s Internal Dynamics 

51:19 - Leadership Longevity Concerns 

52:33 - Risks in Eastern Europe 

Facing Coming Storms is brought to you by the British Army’s Centre for Historical Analysis and Conflict Research, in partnership with the Project for the Study of the 21st Century, and produced by Urban Podcasts.