Hidden costs: Military base deal might drain UK defence budget for next 140 years

The UK defence ministry faces a long-term financial squeeze after plans to give-up control of the Chagos Islands. The deal (announced this fall) means theyll need to pay rent for keeping the Diego Garcia base which they currently own

Sir Keir Starmerʼs decision creates new budget pressure for the military which is already short on resources. The defence department will pay lease costs for the base — used by US forces for long-range operations — but ministers wont reveal the exact amount

The Army is not as strong as we could be due to historic under-investment in defence

Mark Francois‚ shadow defence minister points-out: Labour hasnt committed to a 2‚5% GDP defence spending target; now theres extra costs for renting back our own base. The lease payments might continue till mid-22nd century which is longer than the official 99-year timeline

The deal needs final approval through a treaty thats still in works. While current US president supports it the next administration might not: president-elect Donald Trump could block the agreement when he takes office early next year. Some Congress members think this might help China gain influence in the region

The defence ministry spokesperson says they cant share more info until Parliament reviews the treaty; however Number-10 doesnt expect delays despite US leadership change. A new defence review coming next spring will check:

• Current military needs
• Modern conflict patterns
• Timeline for reaching spending targets
• Resource distribution plan