The Hollow Shield: Britain and the Crisis of Defence

By Alina Vey

Is Britain prepared for the security challenges of the twenty-first century-or has the shield grown hollow?

For centuries, Britain built its security upon maritime power, industrial strength, global alliances, and strategic adaptability. From the Royal Navy and the defence of Europe to nuclear deterrence and NATO, British defence policy has evolved in response to changing threats and shifting balances of power.

Today, however, the strategic landscape is changing once again.

Great power competition has returned. Russia's war in Ukraine has challenged assumptions about European security. China is reshaping the global balance of power. Cyber warfare, artificial intelligence, drones, and space technologies are transforming the character of conflict. Meanwhile, questions persist over defence spending, procurement, recruitment, and national resilience.

In The Hollow Shield: Britain and the Crisis of Defence, Alina Vey examines the historical evolution of British defence and the challenges facing the United Kingdom in an increasingly uncertain world.

Drawing upon history, strategic studies, and contemporary security analysis, this book explores:

The rise of Britain as a maritime powerThe legacy of the Cold War and the post-Cold War peace dividendDefence spending and procurement challengesNATO and Britain's international roleRecruitment and the future of the armed forcesRussia, China, and renewed geopolitical competitionCyber warfare, hybrid threats, and information operationsArtificial intelligence, drones, and emerging technologiesNuclear deterrence and the future of TridentBritain's place in an increasingly multipolar world

Written in a balanced and evidence-based style, The Hollow Shield avoids partisan advocacy and instead focuses on institutions, strategy, and long-term historical trends.

At a time when assumptions about security are being tested once again, this book asks a fundamental question:

Can Britain adapt its defence institutions to the realities of a changing world-or is the shield upon which its security rests becoming increasingly hollow?

• Format: Paperback
• Language: English
• ISBN: B0H58XBGVQ
• ISBN13: 9798181546509
• Release Date: June 2026
• Publisher: Independently Published
• Length: 268 Pages
• Weight: 0.80 lbs.
• Dimensions: 0.6" x 6.0" x 9.0"