Plans to increase the British Army's size to respond to emerging threats have been postponed until after the next election, as stated by Defence Secretary John Healey. Current troop levels stand at 70,860, below the target of 73,000, amid a long-standing recruitment crisis. Healey noted that previous governments have consistently missed recruitment targets. Despite aspirations to boost numbers to 76,000 requiring significant funding, immediate changes are unlikely. Calls for increases may rise with potential deployments in Ukraine, necessitating a strategic review of troop levels.
The British Army's size increase, aimed at addressing new threats, is deferred until after the next election, emphasizing ongoing recruitment and retention issues.
For over 15 years, our armed forces have faced a recruitment and retention crisis, acknowledged Healey, who indicated that reversing this trend is a top priority.
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