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UK to buy 12 nuclear-carrying F-35A jets from the United States and join NATO nuclear mission
UNITED KINGDOM, JUN 25 – The UK will reintroduce nuclear-capable jets to the Royal Air Force, supporting 20,000 jobs and marking the largest nuclear deterrent upgrade since the Cold War, officials said.
At this week's NATO summit in the Netherlands, Prime Minister Keir Starmer announced the UK will purchase 12 F-35A jets capable of carrying tactical nuclear weapons.
This decision follows a strategic defence review prompted by increasing threats from Russia, rising tensions in Europe, and a reduced US role in European security.
The jets will be stationed at RAF Marham in Norfolk and will allow the UK to participate in NATO’s airborne nuclear mission by deploying US-supplied B61 tactical nuclear bombs.
Downing Street called the acquisition the most significant enhancement to the UK's nuclear capabilities in a generation, highlighting its support for 100 businesses and 20,000 jobs, while NATO’s Mark Rutte praised it as a strong British contribution.
The move indicates a shift as the UK actively prepares for wartime scenarios at home and plans to increase defence spending to meet NATO targets amid continued security challenges.