The UK's defence plans for a conflict with Russia are 'weak' and behind schedule, defence sources claim

British preparations for direct conflict with Russia are 'weak' and 'massively' behind schedule, senior defence sources have revealed.

A national plan is being put together but is nowhere near fit for purpose, according to those close to the project.

The Mail revealed last week how officials told Defence Secretary Grant Shapps he may have to wait for 'almost a decade' for investment to increase to 2.5 per cent of GDP.

This newspaper is campaigning for a significant cash boost for troops to reflect the threat of a clash between the Kremlin and NATO.

Meanwhile, Russia is spending 7.5 per cent of its GDP on defence spending while its factories are working in 'triple shift' patterns to produce weapons.

Last night, the Ministry of Defence insisted there were plans in place.

But a senior source said: 'The work they've been doing is nascent and, frankly, pretty weak. They've not been looking into issues surrounding supply chains, compelling civilians to work, requisitions, transition to war. We are massively behind on these fronts.'

Last night, the Government released a list of defence developments, including publication of the National Risk Register and the Alerts system.

The MoD said: 'We have a range of plans in place to secure and defend the country.'