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The UK government has recently made the decision to acquire 12 new fighter jets that have the capability to be armed with nuclear bombs and will join Nato’s airborne nuclear mission. This move, according to Downing Street, marks the most significant enhancement of the UK’s nuclear posture in many years. The newly acquired F-35 A jets are versatile as they can also carry conventional weapons, but the option to equip them with US-manufactured nuclear bombs remains available.
The prime minister is set to make the official announcement regarding this decision at the Nato summit currently underway in the Netherlands. Joining Nato’s airborne nuclear mission will involve having allied aircraft equipped with American B61 bombs that are stockpiled in Europe, a practice already in place in seven other countries including the US, Germany, and Italy. Approval for the use of nuclear weapons would necessitate authorization from Nato’s nuclear planning group, the US president, and the British prime minister.
Demonstrating a commitment to bolstering national security, Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer emphasized the necessity of investing in this area given the current era of unpredictability. He highlighted the extensive benefits of this move, foreseeing its positive impact on various businesses and job opportunities across the nation while heralding a new era for the highly esteemed Royal Air Force. Nato secretary-general Mark Rutte also commended this announcement as a substantial contribution from Britain to the alliance.
The decision to procure the F-35 A jets is a significant triumph for the Royal Air Force, which has been advocating for a fighter jet with an extended range capable of deploying a broader array of bombs and missiles. In contrast to the F-35 B variant operated by the RAF and the Royal Navy’s Fleet Air Arm, the new jets possess a superior range and enhanced weapons-carrying capacity. While the UK currently relies on Trident ballistic missiles launched from Vanguard class submarines for strategic nuclear weapons, the acquisition of F-35 A jets signifies a strategic step towards strengthening the nation’s defense capabilities in the face of evolving nuclear threats
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