finance
UK Revives Cold War-Era War Book to Prepare for Potential Conflict
Britain is updating its Government War Book, a Cold War-era set of documents, to enhance national resilience against modern threats. Air Chief Marshal Sir Richard Knighton, head of the Armed Forces, confirmed the revival and emphasized the need for public education on risks. The effort involves cross-government coordination to address infrastructure protection and military readiness.
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The UK government is reviving its Government War Book, a collection of documents originally developed during the Cold War to prepare for national mobilization in times of crisis.
The updated version will guide the military, police, hospitals, and industry in transitioning to a wartime footing. Air Chief Marshal Sir Richard Knighton, head of the Armed Forces, confirmed the plans during an interview with Sky News. The original war book dates back to the First World War and was regularly updated through the Cold War period.
A 1976 version included hand-typed pages with detailed plans for mobilizing civilians and industry, such as shutting schools, clearing hospitals, rationing food, and storing national treasures. The system was abandoned by the early 2000s after the Cold War ended due to maintenance costs.
Sir Knighton stated that the new document draws on Cold War lessons but applies them in a modern context with contemporary society and infrastructure.
The Cabinet Office is leading the cross-government effort to produce the modernized war book.
“I think that's right.”
The UK has pledged to increase defence spending from just over 2 percent of GDP to 3.5 percent by 2035. A 10-year Defence Investment Plan, which outlines procurements for weapons and capabilities by the Ministry of Defence, remains unpublished. Defence Secretary John Healey did not confirm a release date, though it was due last autumn.
Sir Knighton indicated the delay results from efforts to secure faster funding from the Treasury. He expressed a preference for a properly funded plan that delivers required capabilities, even if it takes additional time. The delay has affected the defence industry, which awaits promised funding.
