UK makes defense cuts, doing away with several warships, helicopters and drones

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The UK government announced major defense spending cuts, retiring 46 Watchkeeper drones, 31 helicopters, and five warships, as confirmed by Secretary of State for Defence John Healey. These cuts, aimed at saving £500 million over five years, include the removal of the British Army’s Watchkeeper drones due to persistent delays and cost overruns. A strategic defense review in mid-2025 will evaluate the future of the Royal Marines and the Navy’s ability to maintain escort capabilities. Additionally, 14 CH-47 Chinook heavy-lift helicopters and 17 Puma multirole rotorcraft will be retired, complicating plans to replace the Pumas under the £1 billion New Medium Helicopter acquisition. The replacement program faces uncertainty after Lockheed Martin and Airbus withdrew from bidding, leaving Leonardo as the sole contender.

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