This Is Why 'Why wasn’t the UK ready for Iran war?' Michael Clarke answers your questions
Mar 18, 2026
Professor Michael Clarke, an experienced military analyst and academic, answers listener questions on Iran and UK defence. He discusses the Strait of Hormuz as a geopolitical pressure point. He explains why the UK had so few ships ready and the limits on HMS Dragon’s readiness. He explores how drones, robotics and lasers are reshaping warfare and whether US commitments to NATO can be relied on.
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Strait Of Hormuz Was An Obvious Iranian Lever
- The Straits of Hormuz have long been recognised as an obvious leverage point Iran could use to disrupt global oil flows.
- Michael Clarke says naval staff teach this at Staff College and that the risk was plain to anyone following Middle East issues.
Loyalty Over Expertise Weakened US Strategic Response
- Decision-making at the top in Washington under Donald Trump favours loyalty over professional experience, weakening timely strategic responses.
- Clarke highlights Trump-appointed advisors and chiefs who learned on the job, reducing effective guidance to the president.
British Navy Fleet Size Limits Rapid Deployment
- The Royal Navy currently has a very small deployable surface fleet, limiting rapid responses to sudden crises.
- Clarke lists available assets: one carrier (soon deployable), two frigates, one Type 25-26 destroyer (Dragon), and one attack submarine (Anson).