Janice R. Andrews
January 26, 2024, London
United States Navy Secretary Carlos Del Toro has made a rare public appearance, urging Britain to reconsider the extent and strength of its military forces in light of the growing threats posed by conflicts across numerous international theatres.
On a visit to London, Mr. Del Toro accepted the high cost of defence spending but suggested raising it, especially for the Royal Navy, in light of the current challenges to global security. His remarks are in line with those of British Army chief General Sir Patrick Sanders, who recently declared that there weren’t enough troops for a big conflict and called for the creation of a citizen army.
Speaking at the Royal United Services Institute (RUSI), Mr. Del Toro praised the Royal Navy for its assistance in operations against the Houthis on the Red Sea and showed his love for the UK military. But he emphasised how crucial it is that the UK reevaluates its defence capacities in light of current challenges.
Mr. Del Toro stated, “Given the near-term, economic threats to the United Kingdom and the United States, investments in their Navy are significantly important,” while reiterating that the British government was ultimately responsible for making policy decisions.
The military efficacy of the UK has been jeopardised by cuts to the defence budget, as previously warned by U.S. and NATO commanders. Given his position as a senior official in the U.S. administration, Mr. Del Toro’s public expression of worry is indicative of the seriousness of the situation.
The naval fleet now consists of nine ships after the Ministry of Defence decided to decommission two frigates, HMS Westminster and HMS Argyll, citing difficulties with recruitment and retention. Concurrently, the administration has promised to strengthen Britain’s naval power internationally.
General Sanders has expressed concern that the regular Army, which now numbers just 73,520 soldiers, would not be able to repel a possible battle with Russia. He contends that national mobilisation plans are needed.
Mr. Del Toro acknowledged that investing in defence comes at a significant cost, but he emphasised that these investments are essential, especially given the challenges that authoritarian nations and well armed hostile militias pose to Western democracies. He emphasised the significance of operations like the Red Sea operation, in which averting Houthi attacks saves lives and keeps the world economy from collapsing.
Mr. Del Toro concluded by stressing the necessity of carrying out these missions—even at tremendous financial risk—and highlighting the joint accountability of Western countries in preserving international security.
