In a significant move affirming its military capabilities, the UK has announced the acquisition of 12 F-35A stealth fighter-bombers that can carry nuclear weapons, marking a pivotal enhancement in its military strategy and nuclear deterrent capacity.
UK Bolsters Nuclear Capability with F-35A Jet Purchase
UK Bolsters Nuclear Capability with F-35A Jet Purchase
Britain's military modernizes its nuclear posture ahead of NATO Summit.
In a strategic announcement coinciding with the NATO summit happening this week in The Hague, Britain declared it would purchase 12 F-35A stealth fighter-bombers. This acquisition enables the Royal Air Force to reintroduce the capacity to deploy nuclear weapons from the air for the first time since the Cold War’s conclusion.
The newly acquired aircraft will be versatile enough to carry both conventional and nuclear munitions. Currently, Britain possesses only one delivery platform for nuclear weapons—its Trident submarines capable of launching cruise missiles. The addition of aerial capabilities—akin to those of France—will enhance Britain's readiness and response flexibility in a crises scenario, especially given that neither country maintains land-based nuclear weapons.
Additionally, the UK confirmed its intention to participate in NATO’s airborne nuclear mission, integrating allied aircraft with U.S. B61 bombs stationed in Europe. The British government emphasized that this move signifies “a nuclear role” for the air force, a landmark development since the retirement of the UK’s own air-delivered nuclear capabilities.
Downing Street termed this procurement the "most significant enhancement" of Britain’s nuclear stance in a generation, further solidifying the European arm of NATO amidst ongoing concerns about American nuclear support for Europe in light of potential Russian aggression.
The UK presently operates F-35B variants suitable for aircraft carriers, yet these are not designed to carry nuclear payloads. With this new development, the UK aligns more closely with NATO allies, as seven member states—including Germany and Italy—already maintain dual-capable aircraft ready for deployment with American nuclear warheads across Europe.
