Conservatives propose £10bn ‘Britannia Shield’ inspired by Israel’s Iron Dome
The Conservative Party has proposed a £10 billion air and missile defence system called 'Britannia Shield,' modeled after Israel's Iron Dome. Shadow Defence Secretary James Cartlidge will announce the plan at the party conference, arguing it is essential for national security in the current geopolitical climate. The project aims to establish a minimum deployable capability within five years, funded by increased defence spending commitments.
- ▪The proposed 'Britannia Shield' system is valued at £10 billion and is intended to protect the UK from aerial attacks using advanced radar and interceptor missiles.
- ▪Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch criticized the current government for failing to keep the country safe, stating that war has returned to Europe and new threats require immediate preparation.
- ▪The system is designed to be funded through a commitment to increase defence spending to 3% of GDP by 2030, with initial capabilities expected within five years.
- ▪British military officials have traditionally opposed such systems, arguing that nuclear deterrence and NATO alliances are sufficient given the remote likelihood of a direct attack on the UK.
- ▪The proposal contrasts with the Israeli Iron Dome, which is designed for a much smaller area and primarily counters short-range threats, whereas the British system would include counter-drone capabilities and longer-range missile stockpiles
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| Original publisher | The Guardian — UK |
| Canonical URL | https://www.theguardian.com/politics/2026/oct/05/conservatives-britannia-shield-israel-iron-dome |
| Publication time | Mon, 05 Oct 2026 21:00:53 GMT |
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Rocket trails from an interception by Israel's Iron Dome missile defence system are pictured over Jerusalem earlier this year. Photograph: AFP/Getty ImagesView image in fullscreenRocket trails from an interception by Israel's Iron Dome missile defence system are pictured over Jerusalem earlier this year. Photograph: AFP/Getty ImagesConservativesConservatives propose £10bn ‘Britannia Shield’ inspired by Israel’s Iron DomeParty to unveil plans for one of UK’s ‘most significant military programmes since the cold war’ Jessica Elgot and Dan SabbaghMon 5 Oct 2026 17.00 EDTSharePrefer the Guardian on GoogleThe Conservatives will announce plans to build a £10bn British “Iron Dome” similar to Israel’s air and missile defence system, which the party will christen “Britannia Shield” in an…
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