UK Expands Nuclear Deterrent with 12 New F-35A Jets at NATO Summit

The United Kingdom has announced plans to purchase 12 F-35A fighter jets capable of carrying nuclear weapons, marking the most significant expansion of its nuclear deterrent in a generation. This move, confirmed by Prime Minister Keir Starmer at the NATO summit in The Hague, will see the UK join NATO’s airborne nuclear mission, reintroducing an air-launched nuclear role for the Royal Air Force for the first time since the Cold War.

The F-35A jets, manufactured by Lockheed Martin, can carry both conventional and US-supplied B61 tactical nuclear bombs, enhancing the UK’s nuclear posture beyond its current submarine-based deterrent. The jets will be based at RAF Marham in Norfolk and are expected to support 20,000 jobs across the UK’s F-35 supply chain, benefiting around 100 businesses nationwide.

Prime Minister Starmer emphasized the need for this investment amid “radical uncertainty,” stating that peace can no longer be taken for granted and underscoring the government’s commitment to national security. The announcement coincides with NATO allies agreeing to increase defense spending targets to 5% of GDP, reflecting growing security concerns in Europe.

This decision is seen as a victory for the Royal Air Force, which has long advocated for the return of nuclear-capable aircraft, complementing ongoing investments in the renewal of the UK’s nuclear submarine fleet.

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Alongside this, the UK will provide 350 air defense missiles to Ukraine, funded by interest from seized Russian assets, further signaling its commitment to European security.