June 25, 2025, 9:08 a.m. ET – In a major announcement timed with the NATO summit in The Hague, the UK government revealed plans to purchase 12 F-35A stealth fighter-bombers. This acquisition would allow Britain’s air force to reintroduce a nuclear role for the first time since the Cold War ended, providing the capacity to carry both conventional and nuclear munitions.
Currently, the UK's nuclear deterrent relies solely on Trident submarines capable of firing cruise missiles, lacking the aerial capabilities possessed by allies like France. With the F-35As, the UK aims to bolster its military response during crises.
In addition to this purchase, Britain confirmed participation in NATO's airborne nuclear mission, facilitating the use of American B61 bombs stationed in Europe. The move was described by Downing Street as the most significant enhancement of the UK's nuclear posture in a generation, notably amidst concerns regarding the United States' resolve to defend Europe against potential Russian aggression.
Seven NATO countries, including Germany and Italy, have dual-capable aircraft on European soil ready to carry American B61 warheads, emphasizing the collective defense strategy within the alliance. While the UK operates F-35B jets for aircraft carrier deployments, they are not currently configured for nuclear operations, making this new acquisition a strategic advancement in Britain’s military capabilities.
Currently, the UK's nuclear deterrent relies solely on Trident submarines capable of firing cruise missiles, lacking the aerial capabilities possessed by allies like France. With the F-35As, the UK aims to bolster its military response during crises.
In addition to this purchase, Britain confirmed participation in NATO's airborne nuclear mission, facilitating the use of American B61 bombs stationed in Europe. The move was described by Downing Street as the most significant enhancement of the UK's nuclear posture in a generation, notably amidst concerns regarding the United States' resolve to defend Europe against potential Russian aggression.
Seven NATO countries, including Germany and Italy, have dual-capable aircraft on European soil ready to carry American B61 warheads, emphasizing the collective defense strategy within the alliance. While the UK operates F-35B jets for aircraft carrier deployments, they are not currently configured for nuclear operations, making this new acquisition a strategic advancement in Britain’s military capabilities.
