The United Kingdom has confirmed plans to reintroduce fighter jets capable of carrying nuclear weapons, marking a major shift in its military posture. Prime Minister Keir Starmer’s office revealed on Tuesday that the government will acquire 12 F-35A aircraft, which can be armed with nuclear warheads. These jets will complement Britain’s current nuclear system, which relies only on submarine-launched missiles.
Downing Street described the move as the “biggest strengthening of the UK’s nuclear posture in a generation.” The announcement comes ahead of Starmer’s appearance at a NATO summit, where the new strategy will be officially presented.
In a statement, Starmer said the jets would “herald a new era” for the Royal Air Force and serve as a strong signal to potential threats against the UK and its allies. NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte praised the move, calling it a powerful addition to NATO’s defence strategy.
For over 30 years, the UK’s nuclear deterrent has been carried exclusively by Royal Navy submarines. The shift to include tactical aircraft reflects changing security concerns in Europe.
Heloise Fayet, a nuclear expert from the French Institute of International Relations, said the decision highlights the ongoing return of nuclear weapons to European defence plans, driven by current threats, particularly the ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine.
American defence giant Lockheed Martin produces the F-35A jets. While the UK already operates F-35B models, the A variant adds nuclear capability to its arsenal. The new jets are expected to be based at RAF Marham in eastern England.
The Royal Air Force has long requested this upgrade, which signals a broader effort to modernize the UK’s role within NATO’s nuclear umbrella.
