Statement from Secretary Carter on Counter-ISIL Actions by the United Kingdom and Germany

Today’s vote by the United Kingdom to participate in strikes on ISIL targets in Syria is further evidence of the strength of our coalition, and the enduring importance of the special relationship between the United States and the United Kingdom. The United Kingdom has been a strong member of the Counter-ISIL coalition since it began in September 2014, making significant contributions to air operations, including through airstrikes against ISIL targets in Iraq and intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance missions in both Iraq and Syria. They have also supported the coalition partners on the ground through the advise and assist mission in Iraq and the Syria train and equip program. I commend Prime Minister David Cameron and Secretary of State for Defense Michael Fallon for the leadership they have shown in the fight against ISIL, as well as the commitment they have shown to our common defense by deciding that the United Kingdom will continue to meet the pledge that all NATO allies made in Wales to invest at least two percent of GDP in defense.

I also want to commend Germany for moving towards expanding its contributions to the Counter-ISIL effort, including a commitment of up to 1,200 troops as well as additional support for the air campaign, and I look forward to Friday’s vote in parliament regarding this contribution. These actions are further proof of the shared commitment among our nations to defeat and destroy ISIL.

Release No: NR-457-15
December 2, 2015

Statement from Secretary of Defense Ash Carter on the United Kingdom’s Strategic Defense and Security Review

Please see the below Statement from Secretary of Defense Ash Carter on the United Kingdom’s Strategic Defense and Security Review:

“I want to congratulate the Government of the United Kingdom and Defense Secretary Michael Fallon on completing and releasing the 2015 Strategic Defense and Security Review (SDSR), which sets UK security and defense priorities through 2020.

“Deputy Secretary Work and I consulted with our UK counterparts during the development of the SDSR as part of our regular dialogue about global security challenges, potential threats, and our plans to deal with those threats together, reflecting the trust and depth of the special relationship which continues between our nations.

“We welcome the SDSR’s emphasis on working with allies and international institutions and adopting innovative technologies and operating concepts – themes that align with our priorities.

“We appreciate the UK’s decisions to invest in a broad range of capabilities, focused on power projection, innovation and deterrence. This approach positions the UK to continue to play a leading role in responding globally to a variety of threats, and sets an example for the rest of the NATO Alliance.

“The United States values the UK government’s close and enduring partnership. We will continue to strengthen our strategic collaboration and leverage our unique capabilities to engage the world and confront common threats together as strong, principled allies.”

Release No: NR-449-15
November 23, 2015