Wales First Minister Urges Starmer to Halt US-UK Space Defence Project
Eluned Morgan, the First Minister of Wales, has publicly called on UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer to suspend the Deep Space Advanced Radar Capability (Darc) programme, a joint defence initiative with the United States under the Aukus partnership. Morgan cited President Donald Trump’s alleged contempt for the UK and his aggressive rhetoric towards Iran as primary reasons, stating that the US is no longer a reliable partner. The Darc project, located at Cawdor Barracks in Pembrokeshire, involves installing radar dishes to track deep space activity. While Morgan argues that continuing the project undermines British values and security interests, the UK government maintains that Darc is essential for protecting satellite communications and securing local jobs. This intervention occurs amidst campaigning for the upcoming Senedd elections, where Welsh Labour faces significant polling challenges. Local campaigners have also opposed the site due to environmental and aesthetic concerns, though Downing Street emphasizes completed environmental assessments and economic benefits for the region.
Wire timeline
Wales First Minister Urges Starmer to Halt US-UK Space Defence Project
Eluned Morgan, the First Minister of Wales, has publicly called on UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer to suspend the Deep Space Advanced Radar Capability (Darc) programme, a joint defence initiative with the United States under the Aukus partnership. Morgan cited President Donald Trump’s alleged contempt for the UK and his aggressive rhetoric towards Iran as primary reasons, stating that the US is no longer a reliable partner. The Darc project, located at Cawdor Barracks in Pembrokeshire, involves installing radar dishes to track deep space activity. While Morgan argues that continuing the project undermines British values and security interests, the UK government maintains that Darc is essential for protecting satellite communications and securing local jobs. This intervention occurs amidst campaigning for the upcoming Senedd elections, where Welsh Labour faces significant polling challenges. Local campaigners have also opposed the site due to environmental and aesthetic concerns, though Downing Street emphasizes completed environmental assessments and economic benefits for the region.
The Guardian