King's College London

Drawing on more than a century of British defence history, Dr Jordan explored a series of pivotal "inflection points" that have shaped the UK's approach to air defence and national security. Beginning with early efforts to establish coordinated air defence systems in the interwar period, he charted the development of capabilities that culminated in the introduction of radar before the Second World War. He highlighted how technological innovation, strategic foresight and investment in capability enabled the UK to respond to emerging threats, arguing that each generation faces the challenge of adapting to a rapidly changing security environment.

The Cormorant Club is the alumni association of the Joint Services Command and Staff College (JSCSC) in Shrivenham. The association is open to graduates of the Higher Command and Staff Course (HCSC) and the Advanced Command and Staff Course (ACSC), which are delivered in partnership with King’s Defence Studies Department to provide professional education for military personnel and civil servants.

The event, organised in collaboration with the School of Security Studies' Freeman Air and Space Institute, welcomed Dr Jordan, Senior Lecturer in Defence Studies at the Defence Academy of the UK and Co-Director of the Freeman Air & Space Institute as the 2026 speaker. Since joining King’s in 2000, Dr Jordan has held a number of senior academic and leadership roles, including Academic Director (Air) for the Advanced Command & Staff Course.

 

A central theme of Dr Jordan’s presentation was the relationship between defence planning, economic pressures and military capability. Examining key moments including the strategic shifts of 1956 and the post-Cold War period after 1991, Dr Jordan argued that successive governments have often prioritised cost savings and spending targets over the capabilities required to meet evolving threats. He suggested that the "peace dividend" that followed the end of the Cold War contributed to a gradual erosion of the UK's air defence and homeland protection capabilities, leaving important gaps that must now be addressed.

Reflecting on the contemporary security landscape, Dr Jordan emphasised that the UK faces a far more complex range of threats than in previous decades. Alongside traditional military challenges, he highlighted the growing significance of drones, long-range missiles, cyber-attacks and threats to critical national infrastructure. He argued that effective deterrence relies on credible capabilities, resilience and preparedness rather than defence spending figures alone, noting that policymakers must focus on what defence investment actually delivers.

Looking ahead, Dr Jordan called for a comprehensive approach to national defence centred on the protection of the UK home base. He stressed the importance of modern, layered air and missile defence systems, enhanced cognitive and technological capabilities and a resilient industry base capable of supporting long-term national security priorities. He also reflected on the UK's international partnerships, arguing that while the relationship with the United States remains vital, Britain must also strengthen its own defence sovereignty and continue building resilience alongside European allies.

Concluding his remarks, Dr Jordan encouraged attendees to think beyond immediate defence challenges and consider the long-term strategic choices facing the UK. Highlighting the enduring importance of adapting defence policy and capabilities to meet an increasingly complex and contested security environment.

The Cormorant Club is open to graduates of the Higher Command and Staff Course (HCSC) and the Advanced Command and Staff Course (ACSC).

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