If a drone was heading for the UK, there’s almost nothing we could do 02.03.2026

Defence expert Francis Tusa argues that the UK is dangerously exposed to drone and missile attacks due to a severe lack of investment in land-to-air defence systems, contrasting with significant spending by European nations. He posits a scenario where a dozen low-cost drones, costing less than £37,000 each, could cripple London by targeting infrastructure like transport hubs, hospitals, and power grids, causing mass casualties and panic. Despite a £1 billion investment announced for integrated air and missile defence over several years, Tusa contends this is insufficient and delayed, with real spending not expected until the mid-2030s, while threats are imminent this decade. He criticizes the UK's reliance on nuclear deterrence as a response to such attacks and highlights that NATO allies might not automatically intercept threats solely targeting the UK, as their systems prioritize their own defence.
















