Britain has been warned to strengthen its military capabilities and emergency preparedness amid concerns that potential adversaries could become capable of launching an attack by 2030.

Defence Secretary Wes Streeting issued the warning in an article published by The Telegraph, saying changes in the military strength and economic capacity of hostile states could increase the threat facing the United Kingdom.

“By 2030 their force strength and war economy could put them in a position to attack,” Streeting wrote.

He stressed that Britain and its allies must be prepared to deter potential aggression and respond effectively if a conflict occurs. He also called for stronger domestic resilience to ensure the country can withstand disruptions linked to security threats.

Streeting’s warning comes amid growing calls for households to prepare for emergencies, including severe weather, power cuts and other unexpected events.

Prime Minister Andy Burnham has urged residents to keep essential supplies at home to help them cope with temporary disruptions. The recommended items include enough food and bottled water for three days, blankets, cash, a first-aid kit and a wind-up FM radio.

Other suggested supplies include hand sanitiser, wet wipes and pet food.

Burnham said the guidance was intended to promote sensible preparation rather than create public anxiety.

“It’s about just taking sensible measures to have enough in the house to tide you over should there be a difficult situation,” he told the BBC.

Streeting also encouraged businesses and households to assess their readiness for potential disruptions, including hostile activities such as alleged Russian state-sponsored attacks.

Concerns have also been raised about the vulnerability of Britain’s food supply chain. According to the report, the National Audit Office warned last month that cyberattacks and climate-related incidents could pose significant risks to food supplies.

The watchdog criticised the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs over what it described as inadequate action to strengthen the sector’s resilience.

Responding to the concerns, Burnham said the increasing frequency of unexpected events made it important for households to take precautionary steps.

He cited storms and power outages in Cornwall as examples of situations in which keeping basic supplies at home could help residents manage until normal services were restored.

The warnings reflect growing emphasis on national preparedness, with officials urging the government, businesses and members of the public to take practical steps to withstand security threats and other emergencies.