U.S. Deputy Secretary of Defense Kathleen Hicks and UK’s Permanent Secretary for Defence David Williams hosted the fifth iteration of the US-UK Defense Dialogue via secure video call on December 10.
During the meeting, both officials agreed to strengthen cooperation on a wide range of issues, including defense strategy, technology innovation, force development, and strategic competition.
U.S. Deputy Secretary of Defense Hicks and UK’s Permanent Secretary for Defence Williams also held a discussion on the Nuclear Posture Review, National Defense Strategy, and implementation of the trilateral AUKUS partnership.
The defense officials of both countries also discussed ways to improve technological cooperation and supply chain resilience.
According to the U.S. Department of Defense statement, both sides also discussed “Russia’s concerning military movements near Ukraine’s borders and reaffirmed their unwavering support for Ukraine’s sovereignty and territorial integrity.”
Both officials also confirmed a shared commitment to strengthen space cooperation, agreeing to sign a “Statement of Intent Regarding Enhanced Space Cooperation” between the US Department of Defense and the UK Ministry of Defence, the statement added.
The Department of Defense official statement further stated that “the Statement of Intent outlines strategic objectives to pursue integrated and interoperable space capabilities, mitigate threats posed by adversaries, and support freedom of action in all domains.”
