How the University of Portsmouth Is Contributing to UK–US Intelligence Dialogue

Parliament is currently hosting discussions on the future of UK–US intelligence-sharing, as part of a wider examination of international relations issues. The House of Lords International Relations and Defence Committee is asking leading authorities to give evidence on the potential trajectory of political developments that may jeopardise strategic cooperation between the two countries. Among such authorities was Dr Dafydd Townley, Senior Teaching Fellow in the University of Portsmouth’s Military Education Team. Speaking on behalf of the University of Portsmouth, he provided a view of the UK’s resilience in its partnership with the USA regarding political pressures.

The meeting focused on topics such as intelligence-sharing arrangements, possible effects of US domestic policy on international trust, and concerns over recent questions about withheld intelligence and their implications for allied confidence. His contribution reflects the growing role that UK universities are playing in shaping global security dialogue and demonstrates how academic research collaboration supports informed policymaking. Discussion centred on both the strengths of the partnership today and the challenges that may lie ahead. Therefore, this was an opportunity for Dr Townley to discuss issues with national policymakers that are at the core of international relations and global security.

On the platform with Dr Townley were distinguished figures such as Professor Sir David Omand, former Director of GCHQ, and John Brennan, former Director of the CIA under President Barack Obama. The strategic significance of the session was further underlined by the presence of Lord George Robertson, a former Secretary General of NATO. Reflecting on the session, Dr Townley expressed the view that the relationship is mutually beneficial and robust in the short to medium term. However, he warned that it could come under pressure from future political developments, particularly those originating from within the White House. He added that the full impact of such pressures may only become clear after the next US Presidential election.

Dr Townley raised specific examples of when the United States has withheld intelligence. He cited an instance involving Ukraine, where intelligence was not shared due to negotiations around rare earth minerals. Such actions, he argued, could erode confidence in American assessments and damage long-term collaboration. The collaboration between UK and US institutions in security studies offers a dual benefit: it strengthens the position of UK universities working with US counterparts and increases the impact of joint academic research on the development of international policy. This type of collaborative research is representative of the work in international relations, defence, and diplomacy being conducted at the University of Portsmouth.

Beyond his teaching role, Dr Townley became Chair of the American Politics Group in 2025. He has been a member of its executive committee since 2016, making it the largest academic body in the UK dedicated to the study of US politics. His position within this organisation adds to the perspective through which UK universities contribute to international politics and security studies.

Dr Townley is also Co-Lead Editor of one of the leading journals published by the Political Studies Association, Political Studies Review. This further strengthens higher education partnerships between the UK and the US through joint editorial and research projects in collaboration with colleagues from the University of Portsmouth. His current research focuses on the evolution of US cyber strategy since the 1980s. More specifically, he examines how cyber diplomacy is becoming a major tool in the field of international relations, offering important insights into how digital policy relates to global security.

In this regard, Dr Townley exemplifies the expertise within the University of Portsmouth on intelligence and defence research, while also demonstrating how universities play a vital role in influencing discussions on international policy. His recent engagement with Parliament further cements the University’s growing stature in international affairs and its commitment to informed dialogue between nations.

Editor’s Note:

Dr Townley’s invitation to the House of Lords signifies both a personal achievement and a notable boost for the University of Portsmouth, enhancing its influence in global security and international relations. Given the current instability in allied relationships, UK universities must expand their role beyond education and actively engage in shaping national and international policy. The session was not just about the exchange of intelligence; it was about credibility, consistency, and the health of the enduring UK–US partnership. Dr Townley’s reflections on withheld intelligence and political pressure from Washington were both timely and necessary. They serve as a reminder that even the strongest alliances must be scrutinised and safeguarded, especially when strategic interests are at stake. It is encouraging to see a British university academic seated alongside former heads of GCHQ and the CIA, contributing to a frank discussion on the challenges and realities of contemporary diplomacy. This type of well-informed, courageous, and research-backed engagement is precisely what should be valued and celebrated in our higher education sector.

Skoobuzz underlines that through its growing role in defence and diplomacy research via teaching, editorial leadership, and policy engagement, the University of Portsmouth demonstrates how academic institutions can shape the future of international cooperation.

FAQs

1. What was the purpose of the parliamentary session on UK–US intelligence-sharing?

The House of Lords International Relations and Defence Committee held a session to examine the future of UK–US intelligence-sharing. It forms part of a wider inquiry into international relations and the strategic cooperation between the two countries.

2. Who represented the University of Portsmouth at the session?

Dr Dafydd Townley, Senior Teaching Fellow in the University of Portsmouth’s Military Education Team, was invited to give expert evidence. He spoke on behalf of the University and shared insights into the resilience of the UK–US partnership.

3. Why is Dr Townley’s contribution significant?

Dr Townley’s participation highlights the growing role of UK universities in shaping global security dialogue. His evidence addressed political pressures, intelligence-sharing challenges, and the importance of trust between allies.

4. What concerns did Dr Townley raise about US intelligence-sharing?

He cited a recent case where the US withheld intelligence from Ukraine during negotiations over rare earth minerals. He warned that such actions could undermine confidence in American intelligence and damage long-term collaboration.

5. Which other experts joined Dr Townley at the session?

Dr Townley shared the platform with Professor Sir David Omand (former Director of GCHQ), John Brennan (former CIA Director under President Obama), and Lord George Robertson (former Secretary General of NATO), underscoring the strategic importance of the discussion.

6. How is the University of Portsmouth contributing to the UK–US intelligence dialogue?

Through expert testimony, academic research, and policy engagement, the University of Portsmouth is actively shaping conversations around international security and diplomacy. Dr Townley’s involvement is a key example of this contribution.

7. What research does the University of Portsmouth conduct in international relations?

The University focuses on defence, diplomacy, and cyber strategy. Dr Townley’s current research explores the evolution of US cyber policy and the rise of cyber diplomacy as a tool in international relations.

8. How do UK universities collaborate with US institutions on security studies?

UK universities like Portsmouth engage in joint research, editorial partnerships, and academic networks. These collaborations strengthen policy development and enhance mutual understanding in international politics and security studies.

9. Which experts from the University of Portsmouth work on intelligence and defence research?

Dr Dafydd Townley is a leading figure in this field. His work spans military education, cyber strategy, and US politics, making him a key contributor to defence and intelligence research at the University.

10. What role do universities play in shaping international policy discussions?

Universities provide evidence-based insights, conduct strategic research, and engage directly with policymakers. Their academic expertise helps inform national decisions and supports international cooperation.