LONDON — The UK government has announced a £15 billion Defence Investment Plan, marking one of the most significant increases in military funding in recent years as ministers seek to strengthen national security and modernise the Armed Forces.

The package includes investment in advanced defence technologies, including autonomous systems, drones and modern military capabilities. Ministers say the strategy is designed to respond to evolving global security challenges while supporting Britain's long-term defence readiness.

To finance the programme, the government plans to reallocate funding from selected capital projects, with some planned road and energy infrastructure schemes expected to be delayed or reviewed. The decision has prompted debate across Westminster over spending priorities and fiscal policy.

Government officials argue the investment will strengthen both national security and the UK's defence industry, while critics have questioned whether the funding increase is sufficient to meet future strategic challenges.

Parliament is expected to continue scrutinising the proposals in the coming days as policymakers debate the balance between defence investment, economic priorities and public spending.