The UK Government is reportedly updating its War Book emergency preparedness framework, last revived during the Cold War era, with new measures to guard against Russia cyber warfare and infrastructure attacks
British households could receive official “survival guides” as escalating global threats compel authorities to brace for a World War 3 scenario. The UK Government is reportedly poised to refresh its War Book framework, last deployed during the Cold War period, incorporating fresh measures aimed at thwarting hostile nations such as Russia from executing cyber and infrastructure assaults nationwide.
While its details remain closely guarded, the War Book will probably feature comprehensive reports on safeguarding British food security and the provision of essential medicine, energy and industrial components during wartime, for confidential use by Government and military personnel.
Ministers are also weighing up introducing a public handbook, advising households throughout the nation on optimal preparation for conflict eruption, according to the i newspaper.
The updated War Book is anticipated to reach completion by year’s end, as concerns persist regarding Britain’s exposure on the global stage.
Russia has already participated in covert warfare forms against Britain and its European partners, including conducting submarine missions near underwater cables.
A Russian assault submarine and two surveillance submarines were monitored lingering close to vital underwater infrastructure in the High North last month, prompting Defence Secretary John Healey to caution Vladimir Putin that any bid to sabotage cables and pipelines would carry “serious consequences”.
News of the WW3 preparation plans emerges following NATO chief George Robertson’s scathing critique of political leaders for their “corrosive complacency” regarding UK security earlier this month. He warned that Britain is “underprepared, underinsured and under attack”.
Speaking in Salisbury on 14 April, Lord Robertson of Port Ellen stated: “We are not safe… Britain’s national security and safety is in peril.”, reports the Express.
“There is a corrosive complacency today in Britain’s political leadership. Lip service is paid to the risks, the threats, the bright red signals of danger.”
The Government has faced backlash over its delay in publishing the long-awaited 10-year defence investment plan, which is intended to deliver the Strategic Defence Review. Sir Keir Starmer previously noted that the plan is being finalised, but internal disagreements are believed to be slowing progress.
Lord Robertson’s warnings also echo growing concerns within defence circles that Britain’s armed forces are ill-equipped to handle modern threats due to issues such as manpower and equipment shortages.
Ministers have vowed to increase defence spending to 3% of GDP by the end of the next parliament, with a longer-term goal of 3.5%. The Government has committed to delivering the Strategic Defence Review alongside “the largest sustained increase in defence spending since the Cold War”, amounting to over £270 billion over the current parliament.
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