Scottish Independence and Defence

We consider the impact on defence and security policy if Scotland were to vote for independence.



Scottish Independence and Defence

A Trident submarine leaving its base on the Clyde, 2013. Courtesy Wikimedia


In September 2014, a referendum was held on Scottish independence, with voters ultimately rejecting separation from the UK by a margin of 55% to 45%. But the question remains a live one: the Scottish National Party (SNP), supported by the Scottish Greens, continues to call for a second referendum. And the SNP could well hold the balance of power at Westminster in a future election. Another referendum, therefore, remains a possibility in future years.

If Scotland were to vote for independence, this would have a profound impact on the defence and security of these islands. With this in mind, RUSI researchers have analysed the key issues involved. This page provides access to some of the most relevant studies. While most of these were produced before, or shortly after, the 2014 vote, they remain pertinent today, and we will continue to add to these resources as the debate evolves.

A Trident submarine leaving its base on the Clyde, 2013. Courtesy Wikimedia


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