RUSI MEMBERS ONLY: Defence Innovation and the UK: Responding to the Risks Identified by the US Third Offset Strategy

The US Third Offset Strategy identified that Russia, China and other emerging powers had closed significantly the defence technology gap and were approaching technological parity with the West across key capabilities. This threatens the UK’s ability to deploy and operate its armed forces.

Following original research involving the UK MoD, US DoD, international industrialists and UK analysts, RUSI will launch an occasional paper written by Professor John Louth, Professor Trevor Taylor (of RUSI) and Dr Andrew Tyler*. The paper addresses policy options relating to the UK’s response to the threats, risks and opportunities identified by the US Third Offset Strategy.

By critically assessing UK defence policy, the potential exploitation of current and emerging technologies and the centrality of alliances and partnerships, the paper recommends a review of capability and force generation through the lens of innovation. As such, it is a significant contribution to the defence and security debate that must follow the 2017 general election.

*Dr Andrew Tyler is the Chief Executive Officer of Northrop Grumman Europe. He has written in a personal capacity.