A government minister has defended the decision to push back a major UK military spending roadmap. The document, known as the Defence Investment Plan (DIP), was first expected to be released last autumn. Its delay is reportedly linked to setbacks in the development of a next-generation fighter jet.

Luke Pollard, a minister in the Ministry of Defence, explained that the plan is a complex undertaking. He noted that the strategy must account for restructuring the armed forces while also restocking weapons and equipment sent to help Ukraine.

Pollard confirmed that the delays surrounding the Tempest fighter jet project are tied to the publication of the spending plan. Alongside these updates, he announced new government funding for defence-related research and subjects at universities.