Britain buys fighter jets capable of dropping nuclear bombs to strengthen nuclear deterrence
Amid Russian aggression, the Israeli-Iraqi war, and the intensifying global nuclear arms race, Britain will purchase 12 F-35A fighter jets capable of dropping nuclear bombs from the United States. British Prime Minister Keir Starmer is expected to announce the arms purchase at the NATO summit on the 26th. According to a report by the Daily Mail on the 24th, the British government’s move symbolizes a major transformation of Britain’s nuclear strategy. The Downing Street statement mentioned that this plan will not only enhance Britain’s domestic defense capabilities, but also make Britain a joint defense partner of NATO. Starmer emphasized: “In this era of uncertainty, we can no longer take peace for granted.”
New Era Nuclear Defense Line Deployment Britain Takes on Nuclear Strategic Responsibilities
The deployment of the F-35A is seen as an important milestone for the British Air Force to return to the core position of nuclear strategy. During the Cold War, the UK had the ability to drop nuclear weapons from the air. With the end of the war and the retirement of military aircraft, the nuclear deterrent force was completely borne by the Royal Navy’s submarines. If a nuclear war broke out, the only defense could rely on the Trident missile system carried by submarines. This arms purchase will enable the UK to have the ability to strike nuclear weapons from the air and build an air defense system.
The F-35A was developed by the US military giant Lockheed Martin. It has the most advanced stealth capabilities and sensors, can carry long-distance flights, and has the ability to carry air-to-air and air-to-ground weapons. It is the main model of the US Air Force. In addition, the F-35A can carry not only conventional weapons but also nuclear warheads.
In the face of increasing threats, the UK emphasizes that peace cannot be neglected
The strategic defense assessment report released by the UK on the 23rd stated that the UK is in an “era of extreme uncertainty”. Not only is the risk of nuclear weapons increasing, but hostile actions within the country are also increasing. At the same time, some opponents are preparing for future conflicts, causing significant damage to the UK’s energy and supply chains. Defense Secretary John Healey pointed out in the report that potential adversaries are accelerating the expansion of their nuclear arsenals, so it is necessary to actively respond to the current threats.
The government plans to purchase up to 138 F-35 fighters in the next few years, which will not only strengthen national defense, but also bring positive benefits to the domestic economy. According to the Daily Mail, about 15% of the parts of the fighter will be produced by local companies, which is expected to benefit 100 companies across the country and create about 20,000 jobs.
Joining NATO’s nuclear mission and reaffirming its commitment to European defense
Purchasing F-35A is not only a strategy for the UK to boost national defense resilience, but also strengthens Europe’s overall nuclear defense system. NATO’s “dual-capable aircraft mission” involves equipping allied aircraft with B61 tactical nuclear bombs. NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte mentioned: “The UK has maintained nuclear deterrence for decades. I warmly welcome the UK to join NATO’s nuclear mission.” In addition to announcing the nuclear plan, the UK also stated that it would supply Ukraine with 350 air defense missiles and urged countries to provide further support to Ukraine. Skel emphasized that the UK must work together with NATO member states to “protect peace and security in Europe and the Atlantic region for the next generation.”
