629A. Aleshin (aleshin.a@imemo.ru),
Primakov National Research Institute of World Economy and International Relations, Russian Academy of Sciences (IMEMO), 23, Profsoyuznaya Str., Moscow, 117997, Russian Federation
Abstract. With the release of the UK from the European Union (EU), changes are taking place in the European and Euro-Atlantic security systems. After Brexit, the traditionally important role of the Royal Navy in defence of the West will become a significant factor in Great Britain’s relations with key partners in the field of security and defence policy – the EU and NATO members. At the same time, the UK seeks to preserve and multiply its global influence. All these factors naturally lead to the transformation of its maritime strategy in the new international political context. London seeks to keep a modern combat-ready fleet capable of carrying out operations at a great distance from the British Isles. Procurement of high-tech equipment will enhance the capabilities of the armed forces, and in particular the fleet, under modern combat conditions. An important factor in Britain’s maritime security is the military cooperation with NATO, the EU and bilateral agreements’ allies. However, Brexit seems to cause financial and reputational costs for the armed forces of the UK. Despite the desire to find new partners at the global level, the future of the most important partnership with the EU in the areas of defence and security is not defined. Expenditures for the armament of Great Britain are threatened with reductions. At the same time, expenditures are affected by the implantation of new technologies which require more and more funds. Most likely, this will lead to the detriment of financing procurements of classical defence equipment. The final assessment of Brexit’s influence on the UK’s maritime strategy will be possible after the end of negotiations between London and Brussels on the future defenñe and security cooperation resulting in an agreement on the final deal by all parties, including the Parliament of the United Kingdom (or in the case of nonagreement and no-deal Brexit).
Keywords: Great Britain, Maritime doctrine, Royal Navy, Brexit, security
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