UK could fend off Russia but war with China would be different story, analysts warn

Experts at the International Institute for Strategic Studies (IISS) say the Armed Forces remain highly capable, but warn the immediate challenge in a sudden fight would be capacity.

They highlight limits in platform numbers and availability - from Royal Navy hulls and crews, to the reduced size of the UK's air fleet - alongside land warfare gaps including long-range strike, logistics and medical capability.

IISS senior fellow Douglas Barrie said Nato airpower could handle Russia even with a diminished US contribution, but warned it would be a "far harder task" if the alliance faced China.

• WindRunner: The largest cargo aircraft ever to be built, capable of carrying six Chinooks
• Crewed and uncrewed warships working together on Nato submarine-hunting exercise
• Three allies, 150 aircraft and 12,000 sq miles of skies: Ex Red Flag ends 50th anniversary year

The analysis comes as the UK weighs future defence spending, with the programme noting experts' views that parts of continental Europe are rearming faster than Britain.