Category: Press Releases

PRESS RELEASE : Fleet of spy drones to equip British soldiers and back jobs in South West England and Wales [July 2026]
The press release issued by the Ministry of Defence on 25 July 2026.

British soldiers will be better protected and more lethal on the battlefield as a new investment of up to £400 million will see the Army equipped with the latest spy drone technology.
- New Tekever AR5 surveillance drones chosen to keep British troops safe through round-the-clock intelligence gathering.
- Up to £400 million deal will support jobs at Tekever’s UK sites, bolstering Britain’s defence manufacturing base.
- Investment supports re-industrialisation of Britain, helping to strengthen national security and create growth across the UK.
British soldiers will be better protected and more lethal on the battlefield as a new investment of up to £400 million will see the Army equipped with the latest spy drone technology.

The new drones will be able to carry up to 50kg in surveillance equipment, such as cameras and sensors, and can fly for longer than previous systems the Army has used, giving commanders real-time intelligence to protect troops and inform battlefield decisions.   

The initial order will be for six AR5 drones, with up to 24 delivered by 2029.

The AR5 has been selected to replace the ageing Watchkeeper drones, under a deal worth up to £400 million over the next 10 years. The drone will be built in Tekever’s soon to be open Swindon manufacturing facility.

Defence Secretary Wes Streeting MP said:

Proven in Ukraine and designed to protect British soldiers globally, we’ve chosen the UK-based Tekever AR5 drone to supply our personnel with kit that will keep them ahead of emerging threats.

This investment will support our troops on deployment, while driving re-industrialisation and backing British innovation.

Watchkeeper, in service since 2014, is reaching the end of its operational life. The new AR5 offers significantly improved endurance, sensor capability and reliability, ensuring that the Army maintains a battle-winning edge in surveillance and reconnaissance systems. The drone has been utilised by Ukraine’s Armed Forces on the battlefield, as they continue their fight against Russia’s unprovoked invasion.

The full contract will sustain and create hundreds of jobs at Tekever’s UK sites, reinforcing defence’s important role in the UK’s growing defence and technology sector. It reflects this government’s commitment, driving defence as an engine for growth and supporting the reindustrialisation of industry in Britain.

Tekever UK’s Managing Director Karl Brew said:

CORVUS represents a major step change in delivering cutting edge autonomy to the British Army. This isn’t about a platform, it’s about building and sustaining sovereign capability that stays one step ahead of our adversaries.

Through CORVUS, TEKEVER aims to create a new type of partnership between government and industry where we will ensure a constant cycle of capability evolution that delivers decisive advantage to our end users.

Subject to contract signature and final approvals, the new capability will begin entering service later this year, with support sustained for at least five years and options to extend.
28/07/2026
PRESS RELEASE : Big win for Scotch whisky as US tariffs are lifted [July 2026]

The press release issued by the Department for Business and Trade on 24 July 2026.

As a result of engagement led by the UK Government, distilleries and whisky drinkers on both sides of the Atlantic will be raising a glass to celebrate a landmark day for the beloved product as US tariffs are lifted.

From today [24 July], whisky from the UK will now have zero tariffs following the agreement that was reached during His Majesty The King’s visit in April.

Whisky distilleries across the country are set to benefit from the deal we secured from boosted trading with what is the largest market by value – in 2025, whisky exports to the US alone were worth £1 billion, almost 20% of all whisky exported from the UK.

To mark the long-awaited milestone, Secretary of State for Scotland Douglas Alexander visited Pernod Ricard’s Strathclyde Distillery in the heart of Glasgow.

Secretary of State for Scotland Douglas Alexander said:

This is a day of celebration for Scotland’s whisky industry. The removal of tariffs by the US is a significant measure that will open up opportunities for growth and prominence for this already beloved Scottish product in US towns and cities.

The action taken by President Trump demonstrates the partnership our two countries have and the close working in trade that supports economic growth both here in the UK and in the United States.

This is the second action this month which has opened up the world even more to our whisky exports, with the India Free Trade Agreement, which came into force earlier in July, seeing tariffs reduced from 150% to 40% over the next ten years.

Businesses have also benefitted from recent deals with China, the Gulf Co-operation Council, the EU, and the US, as the UK Government delivers for Scotland and continues to use the strength and reach of the UK to support economic growth in Scotland.

I join all those raising a dram today for the efforts to reach this point and look forward to seeing our whisky industry flourish.

The whisky industry supports 41,000 jobs in Scotland and a further 25,000 jobs across the UK, according to the Scotch Whisky Association.

The removal of tariffs by the US is the latest big win for the industry this month, with the India FTA coming into force and reducing whisky tariffs from 150% to 75% immediately, then to 40% over ten years.

Nodjame Fouad, CEO of Pernod Ricard’s Aged Spirits and Champagne division, said:

We were delighted to welcome Secretary of State Douglas Alexander to the Strathclyde Distillery, to showcase our innovative energy efficiency technology and thank the UK Government for securing reduced tariffs with India and the US.

Popular blended Scotch whiskies exported overseas, such as Ballantine’s and Chivas Regal, use grain whisky distilled at Strathclyde in the very heart of Glasgow. Trade deals can be explained in millions of dollars – but it’s when you visit a working distillery like this that you can see how improved market access can help secure economic growth in Scotland and across the UK at large.

Ian Duddy, International Director at the Scotch Whisky Association, said:

The return of tariff-free trade for Scotch Whisky in the US is welcome news for businesses on both sides of the Atlantic. As Scotch Whisky’s most valuable global market, worth £933 million in 2025, the removal of tariffs provides greater confidence to invest, grow exports, and support jobs and communities across Scotland and the US. From Kentucky to Speyside, this will not only benefit the Scotch and US whisky sectors, but our wider supply chains of cooperages, farmers, hospitality and retail.

This outcome is testament to the strength of the enduring relationship between the UK and the US. On behalf of the Scotch Whisky industry, we are grateful to everyone who worked to make this happen, including His Majesty The King during his recent State Visit. We look forward to building on this positive momentum and working with partners on both sides of the Atlantic to ensure Scotch Whisky continues to thrive.

Despite a new round of global tariffs announced by the US today, our landmark Economic Prosperity Deal remains in place, and we see an improvement to our trading terms with zero tariffs on both whisky and medical technology.

The changes to whisky tariff arrangements with the US is the latest in a series of deals the UK Government has achieved to support businesses and economic growth. Alongside the India Free Trade Agreement, deals with the Gulf Co-operation Council and the European Union have all shown the importance of working with global partners to grow the UK’s economy and trade partnerships.

28/07/2026
PRESS RELEASE : PM puts new offer on the table to businesses in first talks with industry groups [July 2026]

The press release issued by 10 Downing Street on 24 July 2026.

The Prime Minister has held his first calls with business representative organisations where he set out a new offer from government to Britain’s job creators.

The Prime Minister has today [Friday 24 July] held his first calls with business representative organisations where he set out a new offer from government to Britain’s job creators.

Speaking with organisations including the CBI, British Chambers of Commerce, Federation of Small Businesses, Make UK, Small Business Britain, and Startup Coalition, Andy Burnham outlined a fresh partnership between government and business built around a shared ambition to drive investment, create jobs and grow the economy.

Together, these organisations represent hundreds of thousands of businesses across the country, from major employers and manufacturers to start-ups, high street firms and small businesses.

Acknowledging that many businesses have felt overlooked by successive governments, the Prime Minister said his government will be a circuit breaker by bringing down costs for business, creating a better environment for firms to grow and invest and delivering good growth in every postcode.

The new offer is centred on greater certainty, clearer long-term direction, faster decision-making and a stronger business voice in shaping policy. At a time of heightened global uncertainty, this government will provide the stable foundations businesses need to plan for the long term, invest with confidence and help deliver good growth in every postcode.

This week the Prime Minister promised to give breathing space to people and businesses. As one of the Prime Minister’s first promises delivered in his first week in office, he announced 20 per cent relief for pubs, clubs and music venues. This will bring down costs for town centre businesses, support the places people value in their communities and sends a strong signal of intent that this government is on the side of Britain’s businesses.

The Prime Minister also set out his ambition for a more agile state, with more decisions taken closer to communities, employers and investors. Over-centralised decision-making has too often slowed investment and held back regeneration, while devolving power to those closest to opportunities can cut unnecessary bureaucracy and ensure working people see the benefits in their local communities more quickly.

Alongside a stronger and more constructive partnership with business, the Government will take a much more active role where markets and regulators are not delivering for working people. Whether on energy, water or other essential services, the government wants to ensure every family gets a fair deal and to crack down on businesses who fail to deliver the standards that the public deserve.

The PM underlined his commitment to reduce the frictions that make doing business and hiring people more difficult. In return, he expects businesses to take seriously their responsibility to deliver good growth right across the country, and to take care of their employees and the communities in which they operate.

He also invited employers to work closely with the Government on some of the biggest challenges facing the country, including youth unemployment, tackling skills shortages and improving living standards. The PM acknowledged that too many young people are not leaving school ready for the workplace, making it harder for businesses to recruit the talent they need and exacerbating the youth unemployment crisis.

Tackling youth unemployment head on will be a key test for the new partnership between government and business. The PM will ask employers to work alongside Government to support more young people into work, while helping businesses develop the skilled workforce they need to grow.

Prime Minister Andy Burnham said:

“For too long, businesses have been carrying the burden of rising costs while working people have paid the price.

“We’ve all seen the consequences on our high streets with boarded-up shops, struggling local businesses, and employers feeling like they haven’t been heard across Whitehall. Every business that closes its doors means fewer jobs and fewer opportunities for young people to get into work.

“Britain has enormous strengths and too often we talk ourselves down. We are a global powerhouse in science, technology, manufacturing and innovation. We just need to do a better job of turning that success into jobs, investment and opportunity that everyone can feel in every part of the country.

“That’s why I’m putting a new offer on the table. We’ll bring down costs, reform business rates and use the power of government to back British business. We’ll listen, we’ll act and we’ll give firms the backing they need to reindustrialise Britain. In return, I want businesses to invest in their people, back their communities and help us give every young person a fair chance to find a good job.”

The Government will continue to work with international partners to deepen trade relationships and strengthen our economic security. To kickstart that effort, the Prime Minister has been speaking directly with world leaders this week to discuss how we can strengthen trade ties and unlock new opportunities for British businesses here at home.

Despite a new round of global tariffs announced by the US today, our landmark Economic Prosperity Deal remains in place, which has led to an improvement to our trading terms with zero tariffs on both whisky and medical technology. This demonstrates the value of active engagement with international partners to protect British interests, support jobs and give businesses the certainty they need to invest and grow.

Ministers are also determined to deliver workers’ rights reforms in partnership with businesses, trade unions and workers, making sure the changes support higher living standards, stronger businesses and good growth in every postcode.

The Government will also use the power of public procurement to back British business by default to ensure public investment support jobs, apprenticeships, innovation and skills across the country.

28/07/2026
PRESS RELEASE : Commonwealth Games return to Glasgow with UK Government backing [July 2026]
The press release issued by the Scottish Office on 24 July 2026.

Secretary of State Douglas Alexander joined His Majesty The King, Her Majesty The Queen and the Prime Minister at the 2026 Opening Ceremony.
- Around 3,000 athletes will take part in the 10-day competition.
- UK Government is underwriting the Games’ safety and security costs.
- Armed Forces personnel to raise the Commonwealth flag at the Opening Ceremony.
The summer of sport is coming to Scotland as the 2026 Commonwealth Games arrive in Glasgow.

Around 3,000 athletes from 74 Commonwealth nations and territories will be in Scotland’s largest city as the 2026 Commonwealth Games get underway today [Thursday, 23 July]. Recognised as one of the world’s greatest sporting celebrations, Glasgow will once again take centre stage as the Games returns to the city, 12 years after the acclaimed hosting of the 2014 competition.

The UK Government is proud to have played a central role in bringing the 2026 Commonwealth Games to Glasgow and securing the future of the competition.

In 2023, Victoria, Australia withdrew as hosts, meaning there was a risk that the Games might not go ahead. Glasgow stepped forward with a proposal for a streamlined, sustainable Games making use of the city’s existing world-class venues, building directly on the legacy of the Glasgow 2014 Games. The UK Government gave its backing providing operational support and committing funding to Games safety and security costs.

Now, following Scotland’s return to the world football stage at the 2026 World Cup, the global sporting spotlight turns to Glasgow. The event also cements Scotland as one of the top places to host world sporting events, building on the legacy of Glasgow’s celebrated 2014 Commonwealth Games, as well as having hosted the World Cycling Championships in 2023, the World Athletics Indoor Championships in 2024 and the Tour de France beginning in Edinburgh next year.

The Prime Minister, the Secretary of State for Scotland Douglas Alexander and Sports Minister Stephanie Peacock will attend this evening’s [Thursday 23 July] opening ceremony on behalf of the UK Government.

Scottish Secretary Douglas Alexander said:

Glasgow is set for a fantastic Commonwealth Games, demonstrating yet again why it is one of the world’s great sporting cities. I am incredibly pleased that the UK Government was instrumental in helping to bring the Games back to Glasgow, including by underwriting the security costs.

I would like to thank the organisers, plus the thousands of volunteers, venue staff and local communities who have worked tirelessly behind the scenes to bring the Games to life. It is fantastic seeing athletes from across the Commonwealth come together in this incredible city and I wish all the competitors the best of luck.

It promises to be a spectacular ten days of sport.

Competitors and visitors will travel from across the Commonwealth for ten days of competition across a 10-sport programme, including six fully-integrated Para Sports. As well as household names, such as men’s mile World Record holder Josh Kerr, two-times Heptathlon World Champion Katarina Johnson-Thompson and Scottish swimming star Katie Shannhan coming to Glasgow, members of the Armed Forces will also be among those competing.

Four military athletes will compete alongside their Commonwealth counterparts in boxing, weightlifting, swimming and athletics, representing the very best of British and Commonwealth sporting talent in uniform.

A ceremonial team of 70 armed forces personnel drawn from the Royal Navy, British Army and Royal Air Force will also participate in the opening and closing ceremonies, welcoming the athletes to the OVO Hydro in Glasgow. Armed Forces personnel will also raise the Commonwealth flag at the opening ceremony and the national flags of the gold, silver and bronze medallists at every medal ceremony as the winning nation’s national anthem plays.

Minister for Veterans and People Calvin Bailey said:

It wouldn’t be a national sporting event without our armed forces delivering ceremonial duties and competing for spots on the podium.

Sailors, soldiers and aviators have been competing at the highest levels of international sport for several years and are backed by the military to do so.

The chance to fulfil your sporting potential is just one of the many unique opportunities that come with military service, from experiencing travel and adventurous training, to gaining modern qualifications that remain in demand post-service.

Wishing good luck to all our personnel taking part.

Minister for Sport Stephanie Peacock said:

Glasgow is ready to welcome athletes and fans from all over the Commonwealth, just as it did in 2014.

I am immensely proud of the role the UK Government played in backing Glasgow’s bid and helping make the 2026 Games a reality. We are huge supporters of the Games and we know the value and benefits they can have for the local area.

The Games run until 2 August and are hosted across four venues within an eight-mile corridor in the city – Scotstoun Stadium, Tollcross International Swimming Centre, the Glasgow International Arena and the Scottish Event Campus – making them accessible and appealing to spectators throughout the competition.
28/07/2026
PRESS RELEASE : AI to power change at the heart of government as Lord Vallance appointed chair of new PM AI Taskforce [July 2026]
The press release issued by the Cabinet Office on 24 July 2026.

For the first time, AI will be positioned at the very centre of government, thanks to the launch of the PM’s new AI Taskforce which will be chaired by Lord Vallance.
- New AI Taskforce to drive the Government’s overall strategy on AI and unlock the opportunities it holds for growth, prosperity and public sector transformation
- Lord Vallance to bring extensive scientific, technical and public sector experience in his role as Chair. AI Minister Kanishka Narayan will lead the Taskforce and attend Cabinet.
- Lord Vallance has also been appointed as Chair of the Oxford-Cambridge Growth Corridor.
For the first time, AI will be positioned at the very centre of government, thanks to the launch of the PM’s new AI Taskforce which will be chaired by Lord Vallance.

The remit of the Taskforce will be to transform public services and unlock growth and prosperity across the country, learning lessons from models such as the Vaccines Taskforce which showed that an empowered unit, with clear accountability to the Prime Minister, can drive extraordinary outcomes and deliver real benefits for people across the country.

Reporting to Cabinet Secretary Antonia Romeo and AI Minister Narayan, the Taskforce will deliver the Prime Minister’s AI agenda.

Lord Vallance, as Chair, will report directly to the Prime Minister.

Prime Minister Andy Burnham said:

AI is rapidly changing our world and we need to make sure it works for everyone. The opportunities are huge if we get it right and I want AI to power a new industrial revolution that drives good growth in every postcode.

Lord Vallance is a true public servant with decades of experience, expertise and a track record of delivery. I’m delighted he’ll be chairing the AI Taskforce, putting AI at the centre of all our work to change people’s lives for the better.

Lord Vallance said:

I’m delighted to be appointed Chair of the AI Taskforce and Oxford-Cambridge Growth Corridor. This government is sending a signal that’s clearer than ever before about its commitment to realising the opportunities of AI and Science and Technology.

The potential to transform public services, drive growth and improve people’s lives is immense, and I intend to make sure we deliver on it.

Minister for Artificial Intelligence Kanishka Narayan said:

AI is likely the most significant technology in human history. That is why it is now at the UK Cabinet’s table, so we can reindustrialise with AI, secure our country, and support our public services.

I am delighted that Lord Vallance will work with me on the AI Taskforce, so we can draw on his unique mix of scientific expertise, experience in government and a relentless focus on delivery. We will focus on using AI to boost growth, strengthen public services and create opportunities in every part of our country.

The Taskforce will be based with First Secretary of State Louise Haigh in the Office for the Prime Minister and the Cabinet (OPMC). The OPMC will include the AI Taskforce alongside No.10, No.10 North and core Cabinet Office functions. The Taskforce’s fundamental purpose will be the direction and implementation of the government’s strategy on AI.

The Taskforce will also lead on enabling transformation and AI adoption across the public sector. Responsibility for the existing AI Security Institute will move to the Office for the Prime Minister and the Cabinet.

Lord Vallance is one of the UK’s most distinguished figures at the intersection of science, government, academia and industry. Widely respected across all fields, he will continue to ensure strong relationships and collaboration between key sectors.

He will also serve as Chair of the Oxford to Cambridge Growth Corridor, an ambitious partnership with local government, business, and academia to drive innovation and remove the constraints that are holding back good growth. The role builds on his previous position as Ministerial Champion for the Oxford to Cambridge Growth Corridor.

Lord Vallance served as the UK’s Government Chief Scientific Adviser from 2018 to 2023, providing independent scientific advice on some of the most significant challenges of recent years. He is best known for his leadership of the Vaccines Taskforce during the COVID-19 pandemic, delivering the UK’s vaccination programme. Most recently he was Minister for Science, Innovation, Research and Nuclear in the Department for Science, Innovation and Technology (DSIT) and the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero (DESNZ).
28/07/2026
PRESS RELEASE : Five Board Members appointed to the UK Sport Board [July 2026]

The press release issued by the Department for Culture, Media and Sport on 24 July 2026.

Michelle Dite, Charlotte Samuelson, John Steele and Dame Sarah Storey have been appointed, and Rachel Baillache reappointed, to the UK Sport Board by the Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport for terms of four years.

Michelle Dite, Charlotte Samuelson, John Steele and Dame Sarah Storey will be appointed from 1 August 2026 to 31 July 2030.

Michelle Dite

Michelle Dite is a senior sports executive with more than 25 years of experience delivering some of the world’s most complex and high-profile sporting events. Her career spans Olympic and Paralympic sport, international federations, government partners and major rights holders, with a reputation for balancing operational excellence, commercial objectives and stakeholder needs.

Since 2020, Michelle has served as Operations Director at the All England Lawn Tennis Club (AELTC), leading the operational planning and delivery of The Championships, Wimbledon. Working closely with the CEO, Board and Committee of Management, she plays a key role in shaping Wimbledon’s future while preserving its global prestige and traditions.

Michelle also brings significant governance experience, serving on the UK Sport Major Events Panel, the UEFA EURO 2028 Oversight Group, and the Grand Départ 2027 Board.

Previously, Michelle advised major international events including the Rugby League World Cup, MLB London Series, Invictus Games and The Boat Race.

Charlotte Samuelson

Charlotte Samuelson is Chief Operating Officer of PREM Rugby. She joined PREM Rugby from World Rugby, where she served as COO from 2022. Her rugby leadership experience includes board roles with the Women’s Rugby World Cup 2025 and Men’s Rugby World Cup 2027, as well as helping deliver the record-breaking Women’s Rugby World Cup in England. She served on the Board of Surrey County Cricket Club for eight years and is a disciplinary panel member for the MCC.

A qualified auditor with degrees in English & Philosophy, and Psychology, Charlotte brings more than two decades of senior leadership experience across sport, financial services and professional services, with previous roles at Close Brothers, Vanquis Bank, Barclays, Grant Thornton, EY and the BBC.

John Steele

John has been a professional athlete, European Cup winning coach, CEO, NED, and Chair in the private, public and not-for-profit sectors. He has been CEO of UK Sport, the Rugby Football Union and the Youth Sport Trust. His experience spans leadership roles in 14 Olympic and Paralympic Games, both winter and summer. In his role as Executive Director of Sport at Loughborough University, he gained insight into turning high

performance success into social impact and learning.

He chaired the Board of the UK Sports Institute (EIS) for eight years and currently chairs Commonwealth Games England. He is the founder and co-owner of the leadership consultancy Unforgiving Minute, with previous experience as a Chartered Surveyor and an Army officer. He has been a Visiting Professor in Sports Performance and Leadership at Loughborough University and was awarded an OBE in the Queen’s Birthday Honours 2021 for services to high performance sport.

Dame Sarah Storey

Dame Sarah Storey is the UK’s most successful Paralympian having competed across nine Games and two sports from 1992 to 2024. Her career in sport has been accompanied by a series of roles in sport and public life, including running her own professional cycling team, the head coach role of the North West Disability Swim Squad and now the Chair of Lancashire Cricket Club.

Since 2013, she has been a leading voice in active transport, beginning with her policy advocacy for British Cycling. She has served as an Active Travel Commissioner since 2019, first in South Yorkshire until 2022, and for the past four and a half years in Greater Manchester. As well as a role on the Board at the Department of Transport, Sarah is a regular sports broadcaster having worked at multiple events for TV outlets from World Championships to Commonwealth Games, before her first presenting role on screen at the 2026 Paralympic Winter Games.

Rachel Baillache has been reappointed for a second term of four years, from 1 September 2026 to 31 August 2030.

Rachel Baillache

Rachel is the Senior Independent Director at the Lawn Tennis Association (LTA) where she chairs the Audit and Risk Committee. She is also the LTA Board sponsor for Inclusion and Diversity. Rachel is also an Independent Non-Executive Director of the Men’s Professional Rugby Board andChair of the charity Access Sport.

Rachel was a partner at KPMG for over twenty years where she served as an audit partner and for eight years, until her retirement, she was also a member of KPMG International’s Global Executive.

Remuneration and Governance Code

UK Sport Board members are remunerated at a rate of £218 per day for up to 24 days per annum.

28/07/2026
PRESS RELEASE : Russia’s aerial attacks increase the risk of wider escalation – UK statement to the OSCE [July 2026]

The press release issued by the Foreign Office on 22 July 2026.

UK Senior Military Adviser, Colonel Joby Rimmer, warns that Russia’s missile and drone attacks endanger civilians, violate neighbouring states’ airspace and increase the risk of miscalculation and escalation across Europe.

Thank you, Mr Chair.

Overnight, on 18–19 July, the Russian Federation launched 41 missiles and 125 drones against Ukraine in one of the largest ballistic missile attacks on Kyiv since the beginning of the full-scale invasion. Ukrainian air defences intercepted 18 missiles and 108 drones, but nevertheless strikes and falling debris affected residential buildings, a supermarket, a dormitory and other civilian infrastructure.

Across the country, these attacks killed at least 20 civilians. Those interceptions did save lives, but we should be clear: Ukraine should not need to deploy air-defence systems to protect apartment blocks, supermarkets, hospitals and schools. Russia’s reckless use of drones and missiles has repeatedly resulted in civilian casualties and damage to civilian infrastructure.

And the legal framework is not ambiguous. Parties must always distinguish between civilians and combatants, and between civilian objects and military objectives. Attacks may be directed against only military objectives. Indiscriminate attacks are prohibited, as are attacks expected to cause incidental civilian harm excessive in relation to the concrete and direct military advantage anticipated.

But Russia’s aerial campaign also creates risks beyond Ukraine. On 29 May, during a Russian attack on Ukraine, a Russian drone entered Romanian airspace and struck a ten-storey apartment building in Galați. Two civilians were injured and approximately 70 residents evacuated. This is not a theoretical risk. A live weapons system crossed sovereign airspace and struck civilians in a NATO country.

Moldova has likewise experienced repeated Russian drone incursions. Furthermore, on 13 July, a Shahed-type drone crossed into Moldovan territory and exploded near the village of Copanca during Russian attacks on southern Ukraine. No casualties were reported, but the incident again demonstrated the consistent danger posed to neighbouring states. And NATO condemned Russia’s reckless behaviour in both cases.

This Forum exists to reduce misunderstanding, miscalculation and unintended escalation. Yet every Russian missile or drone launched near an international border could create an uncertain track. Every missile or drone launched near an international border could and has resulted in a possible airspace violation. Every Russian missile or drone launched near an international border could result in the scrambling of military aircraft, further escalating the risk of miscalculation.

Stronger European air and missile defence, surveillance and coordination are therefore necessary, defensive and proportionate responses to a threat solely created by Russia’s aggression, not acts of hostility.

Air defence, however, treats the symptoms rather than the cause. Russia must cease its reckless attacks, comply fully with distinction, proportionality and precautions, prevent further airspace violations and communicate promptly and honestly when incidents occur.

The greatest contribution Russia could make to European security would be to end its aggression, agree an immediate ceasefire and engage seriously towards a just and lasting peace.

24/07/2026
PRESS RELEASE : Business Secretary: “I’m backing investment and innovation to power good growth in every corner of the UK” [July 2026]
The press release issued by the Department for Business and Trade on 22 July 2026.
- New Business, Innovation, Science and Trade Secretary Jonathan Reynolds sets out government’s ambition to harness innovation and drive good growth in every part of the UK.
- Reynolds at Farnborough International Airshow to set out stall to go further and faster for growth by commercialising science and innovation to deliver for every postcode.
- Announcement comes as government unveils £600m package to back British aerospace innovation, including research & development support and new supply chain fund.
The new Business, Innovation, Science and Trade Secretary Jonathan Reynolds will today (22 July) set out the Government’s ambition to harness the potential of science and innovation to power good growth in every corner of the country.

In just the third day of Prime Minister Andy Burnham’s new government, the Secretary of State is visiting the Farnborough International Airshow to set out government’s stall on bringing British business, innovation and science together to deliver for every postcode.

It comes as the new Government unveils a £600 million package of support for the UK aerospace industry at the Airshow, including over £500 million for cutting-edge aerospace research and technology projects to pioneer greener air travel, and a new £100 million Aerospace Supply Chain Fund to help ambitious suppliers scale up and meet the demand in a fast-growing and important industry.

The new support forms part of the Prime Minister’s pledge to reindustrialise Britian and will help businesses in every part of the country develop cutting-edge new aerospace technologies, supporting innovation, attracting investment and securing high-skilled jobs in high-tech roles, 90 percent of which are outside London and the South East.

Business, Innovation, Science and Trade Secretary Jonathan Reynolds said:

This government is laser-focused on bringing good growth to every corner of the country, and we’re wasting no time getting on with the job.

Aerospace is one of Britain’s great industrial success stories. Partnerships like this show the power of bringing business and innovation together to harness our strong manufacturing base and cutting-edge research to support skilled jobs right across the UK.

Alongside today’s investment in pioneering research and development, the Government and British Business Bank have announced plans for a new £100 million Aerospace Supply Chain Fund, working with industry partners including Airbus, Rolls-Royce, GKN Aerospace, Safran and the trade body ADS.

The proposed fund will help ambitious UK aerospace suppliers access the growth capital they need to expand, invest in productivity and workforce capability, and compete for new opportunities in a growing global market. By strengthening British manufacturing capability, it will support businesses to scale and create high-quality jobs across the country.

The aerospace research and technology projects announced today will pioneer a wide range of technologies, from advanced aircraft wings and future engine systems to hydrogen-powered flight, digital engineering and advanced manufacturing.

Examples include Airbus-led projects developing next-generation wing technologies and manufacturing processes, Rolls-Royce projects building on its world-leading UltraFan engine programme – working in partnership with government to prepare for Rolls-Royce to seize the opportunity of the narrowbody market – and companies including ZeroAvia and Safran advancing hydrogen and electric propulsion and more efficient aircraft systems.

Together, the projects will help strengthen the UK’s position as a global aerospace leader, support the transition to greener aviation and turn world-class British innovation into investment, jobs and long-term economic growth.

Gary Elliott, CEO, Aerospace Technology Institute said:

The UK aerospace sector’s world-class innovation and manufacturing capability is being showcased at Farnborough this week. Today’s announcement reflects our commitment to keeping the UK at the forefront of aerospace technology, driving jobs, growth and competitiveness as we work to double the sector’s market value by 2035.

These projects add to a balanced portfolio of investments that cement UK leadership in designing the future of flight.

The Government has also signed a partnership with Embraer to deepen cooperation on aerospace innovation, research and development, and supply chain opportunities.

The Memorandum of Understanding will help identify new opportunities for UK businesses within Embraer’s global supply chain, strengthen links between the UK and one of the world’s leading aerospace companies, and create new opportunities for British firms to grow and compete internationally.

The Aerospace Growth Partnership (AGP) is also publishing its latest strategy update at Farnborough, setting out a shared government and industry plan for the UK aerospace sector through to 2030.

The report reinforces a joint ambition to double the UK’s share of the global aerospace market by 2035 and position the sector for up to fourfold growth by 2050, while supporting the transition to net zero aviation through investment in innovation, skills and a stronger supply chain.
24/07/2026
PRESS RELEASE : £708 million to accelerate UK next-generation air combat technology [July 2026]
The press release issued by the Ministry of Defence on 22 July 2026.

Thousands of British workers will accelerate development of advanced technologies for use by the Royal Air Force, following a £708 million investment announced today.
- Contract awarded to continue development of advanced air combat technology for UK Armed Forces.
- More than 4,500 workers across the UK will develop cutting-edge defence technologies, including artificial intelligence and advanced software.
- A nationwide supply chain of around 600 British-based companies will benefit from the contract extension, which was announced as part of the Farnborough International Airshow.
The contract extends the existing programme with BAE Systems, accelerating development of the advanced technologies needed for the UK’s Future Combat Air System (FCAS). That technology includes pioneering dual-use capabilities, from first-in-the-UK digital engineering to artificial intelligence, and advanced manufacturing capabilities, such as augmented reality, additive manufacturing, and robotics.

The previous phase of investment delivered significant progress across the UK’s future combat air capability, including the expansion of digital engineering capabilities, development of critical physical infrastructure, and maturation of advanced technologies required for future combat air systems.

In part, today’s contract will provide vital UK national infrastructure and technology as a critical contribution to the Global Combat Air Programme (GCAP), as well as supporting the UK’s wider future combat air system.

The work will be led by BAE Systems, alongside Team Tempest partners Leonardo UK, MBDA UK and Rolls-Royce, with approximately 90% of the jobs based outside of London and the south-east. Around 600 companies and academic institutions across the UK form the programme’s supply chain, supporting thousands of skilled jobs and making defence an engine for growth.

Defence Secretary, Wes Streeting MP said:

This is a clear vote of confidence in British industry, and the thousands of highly skilled workers who are helping to keep our country safe.

This investment in advanced combat air technology for the UK Armed Forces will strengthen our defence and deterrence and shows our clear commitment to backing British workers with our defence investment, creating jobs and supporting communities across the UK.

Simon Barnes, BAE Systems Group Managing Director said:

The Future Combat Air System (FCAS) programme represents the UK’s ambition to shape the future of combat air and secure a leading role in the technologies, skills and capabilities that will define air power for decades to come. This additional investment will enable us, as Team Tempest partners, to continue pushing the boundaries of digital engineering, advanced systems and next-generation combat air technologies, helping sustain the UK’s position at the forefront of combat air innovation.

The announcement follows the recently published Defence Investment Plan which confirmed that the UK would invest £8.6 billion into GCAP over the next four years.

Since 2018, the UK Government has invested more than £5 billion across the FCAS programme.
24/07/2026
PRESS RELEASE : Prime Minister meeting with Prime Minister Tusk of Poland [July 2026]

The press release issued by 10 Downing Street on 21 July 2026.

The Prime Minister spoke to the Prime Minister of Poland Donald Tusk this evening.  

The two leaders began by acknowledging the important partnership between the UK and Poland, particularly on security and defence, and the Prime Minister reiterated the UK’s steadfast commitment to the Northolt Treaty to strengthen cooperation in both areas.

Turning to Ukraine, the Prime Minister thanked Prime Minister Tusk for Poland’s leadership and support, adding that his Government stood four-square behind Ukraine and securing a just and lasting peace.

Setting out his ambition to build a closer relationship with the EU, the Prime Minister said he wanted his government to continue the momentum to build a strengthened relationship for the benefit of people and businesses on both sides.

The leaders looked forward to speaking again soon.

24/07/2026