Location:Westminster, London
Start date:01/06/2026
End date:01/06/2026
Event Organiser:The Spectator (1828) Ltd
More information
Email:[email protected]
Web:https://events.spectator.co.uk/events/the-spectator-national-security-summit
The Spectator’s National Security Summit 2026 will bring together policymakers, industry, the armed forces and media to share their ideas on the opportunities and challenges facing the defence sector and the UK’s national security. Speakers include James Cartlidge MP, Shadow Secretary of State for Defence and Tanmanjeet Singh Dhesi MP, Chair of the Defence Committee; and Rachel Ellehuus, Director General, RUSI and Tim Shipman, Political Editor, The Spectator. An opening address by former Conservative Cabinet minister Michael Gove.
Increasing geopolitical instability – including Russia’s aggression in Ukraine, conflict in the Middle East, rising cyber threats and Nato’s call for greater collective investment – has seen the target of 2.5 per cent GDP defence spending brought forward to 2027, with an ambition for 3 per cent in the next parliament and 5 per cent by 2035.
What should the money be spent on? And is that enough? The Ministry of Defence believes it will require an extra £28bn over the next four years just to meet its forecast costs let alone additional requirements.
If you’re an MP, diplomat, member of the armed forces or civil servant, email [email protected] to request a complimentary ticket.
