Focus on Artillery and Drones
Artillery and drones have become the bread and butter of modern warfare. They’re also being used in staggering quantities in Ukraine, with thousands expended every week.
The UK’s war game is putting these resources to the test, simulating how to produce, transport, and deploy them under the kinds of pressures that only war can bring.
These stress tests aren’t just academic. They’ll provide valuable insights into potential choke points—where production might falter or transport routes might fail under attack. The goal? To ensure the UK’s military can keep fighting when the stakes are highest.
Building a Resilient Supply Chain
Defense Secretary John Healey made it clear that this isn’t just about the military—it’s about government and industry working together.
“Innovation at wartime speed” is the mantra, as BBC News noted, and this exercise aims to ensure that key suppliers can deliver, even in the face of disruption.
The timing of this exercise coincides with the government’s upcoming defense industrial strategy, which Healey says will not only strengthen supply chains but also boost British industry.
It’s about more than just survival—it’s about sending a strong message to adversaries like Russia that the UK is prepared for anything.
Learning From Ukraine
The ongoing war in Ukraine has been a wake-up call for Europe’s defense capabilities.
Before Russia’s full-scale invasion, NATO countries—including the UK—could barely produce tens of thousands of 155mm artillery shells a year.
Today, that number has climbed to two million annually, but it still lags behind Russia’s estimated three million rounds.
The UK’s latest war game is part of a broader effort to close that gap and ensure the military is ready for prolonged conflict.
It’s not just about quantity but also speed—getting resources where they’re needed, when they’re needed.
🔴 We need to show enemies UK can innovate quickly, John Healey says at his strategy launch
Find out more ⬇️https://t.co/wija5ZtqsQ pic.twitter.com/5418d8ZNNC
— The Telegraph (@Telegraph) December 2, 2024
What’s Next?
The findings from this week’s exercise will inform future strategies and investments, shaping how the UK prepares for large-scale conflicts.
With plans to increase defense spending to 2.5 percent of gross domestic product (GDP) next year, the government is doubling down on its commitment to national security.
This war game isn’t just a test—it’s a signal. It shows the UK is serious about addressing its weaknesses and ensuring its armed forces are ready for the challenges of modern warfare.
In a world where conflicts can escalate quickly, preparation isn’t just important—it’s essential.
So, while the thought of running out of ammo in a simulation might make us uneasy, it’s exactly this kind of reality check that’s needed to build a stronger, more resilient military. Because in war, there are no second chances.
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