Emergency Preparedness
Could the UK Face Direct Attacks? What the New National Security Strategy Reveals
Ethan Walker
17/07/2025
2 min read
The New Reality: Direct Attack Risks in 2025
For decades, the UK has focused on distant conflicts and overseas threats. The new 2025 National Security Strategy signals a major shift: government experts now warn that direct attacks on UK soil are not just possible, but increasingly likely.
What Types of Direct Attacks Does the Strategy Highlight?
| Threat Type | Main Concerns |
|---|---|
| Cyber Attacks | Disruption of energy, health, transport, and banking sectors. |
| Missile or Drone Strikes | Risks of precision strikes on military, infrastructure, or cities. |
| Sabotage (e.g., undersea cables) | Cutting or disrupting internet, finance, and communications. |
| Airspace Intrusions | Surveillance or attack by hostile aircraft or drones. |
| Hybrid Attacks | Blending digital, physical, and psychological operations. |
Key Warnings from the 2025 Strategy
- Cyber Attacks: The UK is now a target for sophisticated cyber operations aiming to cripple essential services and undermine public trust.
- Sabotage of Undersea Cables: Deliberate attacks on the seabed infrastructure could cause national-scale internet blackouts and financial chaos.
- Missile and Air Attack Scenarios: While still considered a low probability, the strategy openly discusses risks of missile or drone attacks on major UK cities, military sites, or critical infrastructure.
- Hybrid Threats: State and non-state actors may blend digital disinformation, physical sabotage, and even small-scale kinetic attacks to destabilize the country.
How Is the UK Preparing?
- Upgrading Early Warning Systems: Investing in rapid alert networks for both cyber and physical threats.
- Strengthening Infrastructure: Fortifying communications, power, water, and transport against sabotage and attack.
- Public Awareness Campaigns: Teaching citizens how to respond to alerts, seek shelter, and report suspicious activity.
- International Alliances: Deepening cooperation with NATO and European partners for shared defence.
What Should Citizens Do?
- Stay informed on national and local emergency alerts.
- Practice strong digital security (passwords, two-factor authentication, device updates).
- Know your local shelter and evacuation routes.
- Keep backup supplies and offline copies of key documents and contacts.
Conclusion
The new National Security Strategy marks a turning point: the UK must now treat the risk of direct attacks as a real possibility. Preparing at every level—from government to individual households—is essential for resilience and national safety in 2025 and beyond.