The war initiated by Vladimir Putin in Ukraine over 880 days ago has sent shockwaves across Europe, raising concerns about the potential spread of conflict westward.
Fears Russia's Capabilities
According to Ziare general Sir Roly Walker, Chief of the British Army, has expressed heightened fears about Russia's capabilities, warning that war could come sooner than many anticipate.
At the annual British Army Land Warfare Conference, organized by the Royal United Services Institute (RUSI), Walker outlined an ambitious goal: to double the UK's combat power within three years and triple it by the decade's end. This plan is driven by the growing perception of a more immediate threat from Russia, rather than a simple request for increased military funding.
Need an "Internet of Military Things"
General Walker sees the years 2027-28 as a potential flashpoint, where Russian rearmament, China's stance on Taiwan, and Iran's nuclear ambitions could converge into a significant global crisis.
He emphasized the need for an "internet of military things," where data from any sensor, like satellites or drones, could be quickly relayed to weapons systems, all enhanced by artificial intelligence. This vision aims to double the effectiveness of British forces, enabling them to detect threats, make decisions, and respond more swiftly.
Despite these preparations, experts remain skeptical. The British Army currently fields around 75,000 regular troops, with estimates suggesting that 82,000 would be needed to form a single "war-fighting division." This discrepancy highlights a broader issue: the British Army's current resources may not be sufficient to meet its commitments, particularly in a scenario involving a major conflict with Russia.
