Commons Sense

House of Commons · Written Ministerial Statement

Defence Diplomacy Strategy

24 March 2026 · Ministry of Defence

Proposed by John Healey Lab Wentworth and Dearne

Business & TradeDefenceForeign Affairs

Summarised by AI from the official record, so it can contain mistakes.

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At a glance

Key points

  • The minister announces the publication of the UK's first Defence Diplomacy Strategy.
  • The strategy focuses on strengthening international relationships and supporting national security objectives.
  • Concrete actions and funding commitments are outlined for defence diplomacy, with an emphasis on NATO and global partnerships.

Issue summary

The minister announces the publication of the UK's first Defence Diplomacy Strategy, which aims to strengthen international relationships and support national security objectives.

Action requested

The strategy outlines concrete actions and funding commitments for defence diplomacy, focusing on NATO and global partnerships. It also includes initiatives to promote British exports and defense equipment procurement by allies, improve data analytics, and enhance training programs for Defence Attachés.

Key facts

  • The full Strategy is classified but a public summary has been published in the House library.
  • Since coming into office, strategic agreements with Germany, France, and Norway have been secured.
  • The UK co-chairs the Ukraine Defence Contact Group and co-leads the Coalition of the Willing with France.
  • The strategy embeds lessons from recent successes like a major fighter jet deal with Turkey and Britain’s biggest ever warship deal with Norway.
  • Enhanced training programs for Defence Attachés and international-facing personnel are introduced.
  • A newly established Defence Section London supports 102 foreign defence sections accredited in the UK.
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