Navy chief warns on strike ability

2010-01-19
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The head of the Royal Navy will warn that Britain must maintain its military capabilities if it is to retain its influence in the world.

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The head of the Royal Navy will warn that Britain must maintain its military capabilities if it is to retain its influence in the world.

In what appears to indicate significant differences with the chief of the Army, First Sea Lord Admiral Sir Mark Stanhope will stress the continued importance of the UK's "hard power".

His comments follow General Sir David Richards' call for a "radical" shift in priorities, away from "hugely expensive" equipment towards getting more troops on the ground.

The Chief of the General Staff said future conflicts would require an unprecedented focus on hearts and minds initiatives rather than conventional military might.

But, amid fears that major defence equipment programmes may be on the line, Admiral Stanhope will insist that Britain needs a fleet that can handle "high-intensity warfare".

Arguing that the Armed Forces needs to win wars with "hard power", he will say: "We must look beyond Afghanistan... we must be prepared for surprises and strategic shocks.

"The Falklands war was such an event. It came in from left-field."

The difference of emphasis between the two services chiefs comes amid a review of defence policy.

Initial proposals are due to be published in a Green Paper early this year.

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