UK Plans to Acquire US Nuclear-Capable Fighter Jets

In a significant shift in its defense strategy, the United Kingdom is considering acquiring advanced American fighter jets equipped with nuclear weapons, signaling a renewed focus on deterrence as global tensions rise. This bold move comes amid escalating concerns over the threat posed by Russia and other state adversaries, and would mark the most dramatic nuclear-related development in British military posture since the Cold War.

According to reports, the UK government is eyeing the purchase of the F-35A Lightning stealth fighter jets from the United States. Unlike the F-35B models currently operated by the Royal Air Force and Royal Navy, the F-35A is capable of carrying the B61-12 thermonuclear gravity bombs—modern low-yield nuclear weapons designed for precision targeting. These bombs are considered tactical nuclear weapons and are certified for use with F-35A jets, enhancing their strategic value on the battlefield.

British officials have reportedly begun quiet discussions around the possibility of these aircraft being used in the event of a full-scale nuclear confrontation. The plan, if approved, would not only increase the UK’s participation in NATO’s nuclear sharing arrangements but also deepen its integration with U.S. nuclear defense planning.

UK Defence Secretary John Healey emphasized that Britain must adjust to what he described as a “new era of threat.” Speaking on the matter, he noted, “The world is definitely becoming more dangerous. Nuclear risks are rising. We face now, for the first time since the end of the Cold War, seriously increasing risks of state-on-state conflict.” While an official defense ministry statement has not yet been issued, Healey’s remarks reflect a growing urgency within the UK’s national security circles.

The timing of the UK’s interest in these nuclear-capable aircraft is closely aligned with broader changes in U.S. nuclear deployments in Europe. In January, the United States reportedly began moving B61-12 nuclear bombs into several European bases, including the Lakenheath airbase in eastern England. Although never officially confirmed, satellite imagery and defense sources have indicated that a new tactical nuclear weapons storage facility has been built at the base, which was previously used for such weapons during the Cold War.

The broader UK defense strategy is also undergoing a transformation. An upcoming strategic defense review is set to invest approximately £6 billion to replenish the country’s dwindling munitions supplies. This includes £1.5 billion allocated for building six new defense factories, projected to generate around 1,000 jobs and strengthen the domestic defense industry.

Beyond munitions, the review will also support the development of new missile defense systems capable of shielding the UK from ballistic missile threats. In addition, the Royal Navy will oversee the launch of a new underwater surveillance program to protect undersea internet cables and energy pipelines—key infrastructure that could be vulnerable to sabotage during conflicts or hybrid warfare.

Taken together, these developments underscore a significant evolution in the UK’s approach to national defense. With nuclear tensions rising globally and state-on-state rivalry returning to the forefront, Britain is preparing for an era that looks increasingly unpredictable—and possibly more dangerous than at any time in recent decades.