Keir Starmer to unveil defence plan with £5bn for drones

The resignations highlighted Starmer's weakening authority.

For decades, much of the U.K.’s military strength has rested on sea power, with large, expensive warships like aircraft carriers and submarines able to launch nuclear missiles forming a central part of what Britain can bring to bear in peace and war.

Instead, the Navy is to get several cheaper ships called Common Combat Vessels that will act as hubs controlling a fleet of uncrewed vessels or drones.

Keir Starmer will lay out his plan to modernise the armed forces, nine months after it was due to be completed, and after two of his ministers resigned in protest over it not being good enough.