On 18 May 2026, Rethinking Security, the Centre for Defence Studies at King’s College London and the British International Studies Association (BISA) Working Group on Security Policy and Practice co-hosted the roundtable ‘UK National Security Strategy: progress, setbacks and priorities’ for a group of strategic decision-makers, experienced scholars and practitioners. This was held a year on from the release of the Strategic Defence Review and NSS, and as the UK awaited a Defence Investment Plan and a likely change of political leadership.
This outcome document summarises key issues and the insights and recommendations discussed in four areas: the evolving strategic picture; defence investments, sovereign capabilities and supply chains; relationships and alliances; and resilience to future threats.