The UK’s Strategic Vision on Defence: Senior Course 144 visits London
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London, United Kingdom, was the third stop on Field Study 2 for Senior Course 144. Hosted at the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO), the visit provided insights into the UK’s stance on current international defence and security challenges relevant to NATO. It was also a valuable opportunity for interactions with senior officials from the FCDO, the Ministry of Defence and the Cabinet Office, as well as representatives from industry and academia.
Upon arrival in London, Course Members were welcomed by Jonathan Allen, Director General, Defence and Intelligence at FCDO. He underscored the significance of such Field Study visits in fostering diversity of thought and deeper multicultural understanding, essential skills for future NATO leaders, particularly in the face of evolving security dynamics.
Air Marshal Harvey Smyth, Deputy Chief of the Defence Staff (Military Strategy and Operations), opened a series of briefings and discussions with a variety of UK military, civilian and academic leaders, who shared insights into the UK’s view on international security and NATO’s development in response to emerging challenges.
Topics covered during the discussions spanned from NATO’s capability innovation and readiness across five domains to the UK’s support for NATO nuclear deterrence. Furthermore, participants delved into UK’s ongoing support for Ukraine and the strategic implications of the war for NATO. Strategic international competitiveness and priorities for the upcoming NATO Washington Summit were also addressed.
The United Kingdom, as a founding member of the Alliance, remains a highly valued Ally and a significant contributor to NATO. Overall, the London visit provided Senior Course 144 with a comprehensive overview of the UK’s perspectives on international security and the country’s role in shaping NATO’s strategic responses.
During the visit, Lieutenant General Max A.L.T. Nielsen, Commandant of the NATO Defense College (NDC), engaged in bilateral meetings with Air Marshal Smyth and Lieutenant General Tom Copinger-Symes, Deputy Commander, Strategic Command. Discussions centred on NATO's adaptation to the changing security landscape, with the Commandant outlining the NDC's contributions to NATO's mission and future through its educational, research and engagement activities.