BFBS Sitrep

Japan eases restrictions in defence exports, taking a step away from decades of self-imposed pacifism after the Second World War. On Sitrep, we ask, what will they be selling and will the UK buy any of it?Searching for the next generation of Gurkha soldiers – we’re on the road in Nepal with the recruiters battling with bribery and corruption. Also on Sitrep, how do you prepare for peace while war rages? A career diplomat explores the people and events in the Foreign Office during World War 2.

When they still don’t know what equipment they will get, and when, it’s extremely hard for the UK’s Armed Forces deliver on their mission to be ready for war.
But the clock is ticking ever louder, so how long have they got?
Professor Michael Clarke and Dr. Jack Watling explain the types of conflict that could lie ahead, when they could happen, and what we need to be ready for those risks.
And as the Chief of Defence Staff reveals a new national War Book is being written, to plan for the worst case scenario, Sitrep hears from someone who had access to this highly secret document during the Cold War.

British military planners are working with allies on how to make the Strait of Hormuz “safe and accessible”. The PM says it’s important we get the route open, but how and when could it be done?
Former Royal Navy Weapon Engineering Officer, Commodore Steve Prest, tells Sitrep what capabilities are needed, and why the announced two-week ceasefire isn’t enough to start the job.
With the US and Iran both claiming victory, Professor Michael Clarke explains why they “scared themselves” into the deal, and how the war could spiral out of control if it restarts.
And with the world distracted from Ukraine, Simon Newton updates us on why President Zelensky believes his forces are in their best position for nearly a year.

The UK’s defence plans have relied, for decades, on the assumption that America will help us in a crisis. But we can’t assume that any more, so what are those plans worth now?
Sitrep explains the findings of MPs and Peers who say we must end our “deep dependence” on the US, for everything from software updates for planes to nuclear capable missiles.
Former National Security adviser Lord Ricketts tells Kate Gerbeau where the biggest risks are, and how long it could take to cut UK military dependence on the US.
And as President Trump threatens, again, to pull the US out of NATO former MoD official Matthew Savill explains why a “quiet quitting” by the US is more likely and just how exposed it could still leave us.

20 years ago the “future infantry structure” plan provoked outrage.
To reshape a shrunken army some historic regiments were amalgamated, losing names and cap badges, while others were closed altogether.
Two decades later, those regiments that were created have their own histories, and bonds forged in battle.
So was the pain worth it, and with all that’s changed since is it time for another round of mergers?