And the modernisation plans comes as the UK is increasing its ability to deploy forces abroad, with six new roll-on, roll-off ferries, and the leasing of four giant C-17 cargo planes, leased from the Americans, which can carry Apache attack helicopters or Chinooks around the world.

BBC: NEWS | UK | The armed forces of the future

Many young Italians are talented and hard-working, but too many deploy their talents abroad rather than at home.

ECONOMIST: How to slay its demons

As we meet here tonight, our men and women in uniform stand watch abroad and more are readying to deploy.

NPR: Obama's Address To Congress