British Army Chief General Sir Roly Walker has
warned that the world is facing serious security threats and that Britain must
prepare in advance for a potential war. He said the British public would soon
hear the government speak openly about the threats facing the country and its defense
needs. Addressing around 700 soldiers at Catterick Garrison in North Yorkshire,
General Walker said there was a time when Britain did not even want to
contemplate the possibility of war. However, the current global situation
presents an “extreme threat,” making military preparedness a national priority
once again.
The army chief said political leaders would seek
to explain to the public that certain sacrifices might be necessary to
prioritise national defense and security. He added that citizens would need to
do more than simply support the armed forces; they should also be prepared to
play their part in defending the country and ensuring its security. Addressing
the soldiers, Walker said that if Britain were forced to enter a war, the
country would need them. He particularly emphasized that the heaviest burden of
ground combat typically falls on younger and less experienced soldiers.