Strong defence is the foundation of prosperity
The City’s success and status as a global financial hub rests on the foundations of stability, rule of law and security. So the City should show its support however it can and we’re glad to play our own part, says Susan Langley This year’s Strategic Defence Review shone a spotlight on a question we can [...]
The City of London's economic prowess relies heavily on its reputation as a global financial hub, underpinned by stability, rule of law, and security. Susan Langley, the Lady Mayor of the City, emphasizes the importance of supporting defense and resilience initiatives. The recent Strategic Defence Review has highlighted the need for the UK to be prepared for conflicts driven by data, autonomous systems, and artificial intelligence.
These rapidly evolving challenges necessitate a robust defense investment to ensure national security and resilience. The City has a vital role to play in this endeavor, as it is a major center for raising global capital. By backing companies that develop tools, technologies, and ideas to address new threats, the City can help drive innovation and create opportunities for growth.
Mansion House recently hosted City Defence Day, bringing together defence and resilience technology startups and investors. The event showcased 21 promising British defense and dual-use technology firms seeking £350 million in funding from nearly 300 investors. Notable speakers at the event included Luke Pollard MP, the minister of state for defence readiness and industry, and General Valerii Zaluzhnyi, Ukraine's Ambassador to the UK and the former commander-in-chief of the Armed Forces of Ukraine.
The City's ability to connect capital with opportunity is a key strength, and it should continue to support defense investment while recognizing its role in fostering overall technological advancement. Defense investment often leads to innovative solutions that benefit everyday life in various sectors, such as radar technology transforming air traffic control, weather monitoring, and vehicle sensing.
As global investment in quantum computing has surged six-fold to $12.6 billion in 2025, the UK must maintain its position in this race. The City has demonstrated ambition, ingenuity, and the ability to unite people, and now it must channel this energy towards strengthening national resilience, supporting innovative British businesses, and ensuring that future technologies are developed, funded, and scaled within the UK.
By doing so, the City can enhance its security and lay the groundwork for further economic growth and opportunity.
Written by urgent.news from City AM's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
