UK SDR 2025: Review big on aviation aspiration, light on commitment

While strong on ambition, much of the SDR 2025 as it related to aviation was light on commitment. This was evidenced in the desire to increase the number of E-7A AEW&C aircraft (pictured) to be procured, but only if the funding allows. (Crown Copyright)

The UK Strategic Defence Review (SDR) 2025 published on 2 June set out strong aspirations for the country's aviation capabilities, although it fell short of committing to funding and timelines for their implementation.

Titled Making Britain Safer: secure at home, strong abroad , the review spelt out a desire to introduce new aviation platforms and capabilities for the Royal Air Force (RAF) and the Royal Navy (RN), but in most cases caveated this intent with the proviso that the required funding be available for them.

New platforms

In terms of new platforms for the RAF, the SDR suggested increasing the planned procurement of three Boeing E-7A Wedgetail AEW1 airborne early warning and control (AEW&C) aircraft, noting, “Further E-7s should be procured when funding allows (taking account of infrastructure and operating costs). This may be expedited by a cost-sharing arrangement with NATO allies.”

Air mobility was another area highlighted for potential growth, with the review seeking to augment “the existing fleet of A400M with either more A400M, civilian charter, and/or sponsored service options, reducing routine demand on RAF air transport that does not require military capability”. This is geared at replacing lost airlift capacity following the recent retirement of 14 Lockheed Martin C-130J Hercules aircraft and futureproofing the planned retirement in 2040 of eight Boeing C-17 Globemaster III strategic airlifters.

The report also noted the intent to replace the RAF's BAE Systems Hawks with a new “a cost-effective” fast jet trainer.

New capabilities