Nato expects 23 of its 32 members to have met the target of spending 2% of GDP on defence in 2024.

Business Secretary Jonathan Reynolds says the UK could act as a "bridge" between the US and Europe.

Only a "remote chance" Russia would directly attack the UK if the countries were at war, Admiral Radakin said.

Thales UK, which has its headquarters in Berkshire, employs more than 7,000 staff across the country.

Critics said the move would leave UK defence weaker, at a time of growing international tensions and after over a decade of funding pressures on the armed forces.

Treasury minister Darren Jones says defence spending should rise to 2.5% of GDP, but avoids saying by when.

Politicians say we're living in dangerous times, and Trump is a lot less willing than Biden to pay for Europe's defence.

Some military projects are likely to be cut because of financial pressures, defence secretary suggests.