The London Defence Conference 2025

I attended the London Defence Conference 2025 on May 8-10 at King’s College London. It was attended by political leaders, militaries, leading academics, strategists, think-tanks, journalists, and defence industries to discuss the global security architecture and the threats and challenges like-minded states are facing in the world today. The theme for this year’s LDC is “Alliances” and how partnership and interoperability are more important than ever to address geopolitical challenges.

The War in Ukraine was the center of discussion during the conference. The event was also attended by the Ukrainian delegation, including the Ukrainian Ambassador to the UK, Valerii Zaluzhnyi. It also touched on topics like the uncertainty of the United States under the Trump Presidency, the threat of authoritarian states such as China and Russia, and the development of the Strategic Defense Review. Britain has now taken over the world stage and needs to be prepared more than ever for these future uncertainties.

British Prime Minister Keir Starmer was the keynote speakers on Day 1. He pledged to increase the Defense Budget to invest in the British defence industry and to strengthen defence cooperation with Europe. Secretary of State for Defence John Healy delivered the keynote address on Day 2. He highlighted Britain’s role as the leading European nation in NATO. A US Congress Delegation attended the conference and discussed the future of America and its relations with the rest of the world given Trump’s presidency.

The third day was dedicated to students and young professionals called the Futures Leaders. It provides a platform to engage in discussions with leaders and experts on defence and national security and investing in future talent. Lord George Robertson who is the Director of the Strategic Defense Review delivered the keynote address on the third day.