Papers
Written Evidence submitted by The Air & Space Power Association and Freeman Air & Space Institute, King’s College London to the High North parliamentary Inquiry
Summary The High North must principally be treated as an integrated air, space and maritime domain, requiring close coordination with Allies. The UK should strengthen its leadership within NATO and regional groupings, while enhancing national capabilities, by expanding airborne ASW/ASuW capacity, developing theatre-level ISR (including a HADES-like capability), increasing the E-7 fleet, bolstering the RAF fleet’s endurance and range with sovereign “boom” refuelling capacity, and improving space contributions through initiatives such as STARLIFT and NORTHLINK.1 It should also exploit the maritime potential of uncrewed and high-altitude systems alongside crewed platforms. Finally, it should clarify the role and capacity of its combat air force to ensure credible, sustained operations in the region.
Note: This submission focuses on two areas of the Committee’s call for evidence, from an air and space power perspective: i) how will the UK work with allies? and ii) is the UK capable of sustained operations in the High North?
This is one of 41 written submissions to the Inquiry, including those from industry, think tanks/membership organisations, and several academics. The MOD has also submitted written evidence. The link to all evidence can be found here.