Britain to acquire nuclear bombs-equipped F-35A fighter jets. What does it mean for NATO?

The UK is all set to procure 12 fifth-generation F-35A fighter jets, which can carry nuclear bombs, from US-based defence major Lockheed Martin.

 

This is in line with the recent defence review of the UK which called for “warfighting readiness” and said over the next decade the country would need more F-35s. "More F-35s will be required over the next decade. This could comprise a mix of F-35A and B models according to military requirements to provide greater value for money," one of the recommendations in 'Strategic Defence Review 2025' stated.

 

According to the UK’s Foreign Office, the procurement of the fighter jets "represents the biggest strengthening of the UK’s nuclear posture in a generation." 

 

Touted as one of the most advanced fighter jets in the world, the procurement of F-35 As will enable  Royal Air Force to carry nuclear weapons for the first time since the end of the Cold War.

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F-35A reportedly can carry only B61-12, the latest in the B61 family of air-launched nuclear gravity bombs. However, the aircraft's other variants—carrier-launched F-35C and short takeoff and vertical landing F-35B—are not certified to carry B61-12, according to Breaking Defence. A British official told news agency Reuters that the UK depends on the US for the supply of these nuclear weapons.

 

“In an era of radical uncertainty, we can no longer take peace for granted, which is why my government is investing in our national security, ensuring our armed forces have the equipment they need and communities up and down the country reap the benefits from our defence dividend,” British Prime Minister Keir Starmer said.

 

According to NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte, this procurement is "yet another robust British contribution to NATO." 

 

“The UK’s commitment to NATO is unquestionable, as is the alliance’s contribution to keeping the UK safe and secure," the statement from PM Starmer read.

Defence