UK Considers Acquiring Nuclear-Capable F-35A Jets Amid Growing Russian Threat
The United Kingdom is exploring the acquisition of the U.S.-made F-35A Lightning II stealth fighter jets equipped to carry tactical nuclear weapons, in a significant step to expand and modernize its nuclear deterrent.
The Gaze reports on this with reference to The Times.
British Defence Secretary John Healey and Chief of the Defence Staff Admiral Sir Tony Radakin are reportedly spearheading confidential discussions with the Pentagon regarding the procurement of aircraft capable of deploying B61 nuclear gravity bombs. These low-yield, precision-guided bombs are designed for flexible use in regional conflicts and represent a key component of NATO’s nuclear sharing arrangements.
Sources suggest that Prime Minister Keir Starmer has personally endorsed the plan, having recently made a high-profile visit to a Royal Navy nuclear submarine, his first since taking office. Following that, British defense officials initiated preliminary talks with their U.S. counterparts.
The F-35A variant, manufactured by Lockheed Martin, is favored over other platforms due to its extended operational range of approximately 1,400 kilometers and its compatibility with NATO’s tactical nuclear arsenal. If purchased, these jets would complement the UK’s existing submarine-based Trident deterrent, forming a more versatile dual-capability force.
The strategic implications are substantial. The addition of air-delivered nuclear weapons would allow Britain to respond more flexibly to potential threats, particularly in scenarios that fall below the threshold of full-scale nuclear war. It would also enhance the UK’s contribution to NATO’s collective deterrence, especially in light of renewed fears over Russian military intentions in Europe.
The proposal is expected to be officially outlined in a 130-page Defence Strategic Review, due for publication on Monday. According to government sources, the review will issue a stark warning about the “urgent and direct” threat posed by Russia and call for accelerated defense modernization.
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