Independent Thinking: War plan or wish list – The UK Strategic Defence Review

Grace Cassy, Marion Messmer and Olivia O’Sullivan join the podcast to discuss the role drones, cyber warfare and traditional weapons systems play in the UK’s new Strategic Defence Review.

Audio Published 6 June 2025 30 minute listen

Drones, AI, cyber warfare and nuclear weapons are a key part of the UK’s new Strategic Defence Review, along with conventional weapons. Chatham House experts unpack the strategy, spending pledges and how Britain should adapt its military to deal with Putin, China and Donald Trump.

Bronwen Maddox is joined by Chatham House experts Grace Cassy, Marion Messmer and Olivia O’Sullivan to unpack the strategy, spending pledges, and the UK’s place in a rapidly shifting global security landscape.

About Independent Thinking

Independent Thinking is a weekly international affairs podcast hosted by our director Bronwen Maddox, in conversation with leading policymakers, journalists, and Chatham House experts providing insight on the latest international issues.

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