UK to Buy 12 Nuclear-Capable F-35A Jets in Historic Shift Toward NATO’s Nuclear Mission

In a landmark move reshaping Britain’s nuclear strategy, the United Kingdom has confirmed it will purchase 12 U.S.-made F-35A stealth fighter jets capable of carrying nuclear weapons. The decision marks the country's return to an air-delivered nuclear strike role for the first time since the Cold War and signals a deepened commitment to NATO’s collective deterrence.

Prime Minister Keir Starmer is expected to formally announce the procurement during the NATO summit, describing the move as a pillar of his government’s broader “Plan for Change” focused on strengthening national security in an increasingly unstable world. “In an era of radical uncertainty, we can no longer take peace for granted,” he stated. “That’s why my government is investing in our national security.”

These advanced aircraft will be stationed at RAF Marham in Norfolk and form part of a broader long-term goal to procure up to 138 F-35s for the Royal Air Force. The current order focuses specifically on the F-35A variant, a conventional takeoff and landing version which is both compatible with NATO’s Dual Capable Aircraft (DCA) mission and up to 25% less expensive than the vertical takeoff F-35B variant already in service with the UK.

The addition of F-35As to the RAF fleet directly integrates the UK into NATO’s nuclear mission. These aircraft are designed to carry both conventional and nuclear payloads, allowing the UK to deliver tactical nuclear weapons under NATO command if required. This complements the UK’s sea-based nuclear deterrent, creating a two-pronged strategic defense posture.

Beyond military capability, the purchase will also boost Britain’s economy. The F-35 programme already supports more than 20,000 jobs in the UK, with over 100 UK-based companies—including BAE Systems, Rolls-Royce, MBDA, and Leonardo UK—contributing to the jet’s global production. This contract is expected to further stimulate the domestic defense industry, highlighting how defense spending can also fuel economic growth.

NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte welcomed the UK's decision, calling it a “robust British contribution” to the alliance. “The UK has declared its nuclear deterrent to NATO for many decades, and I strongly welcome that it will now also play a direct role in NATO’s nuclear air mission,” he said.

Defence Secretary John Healey echoed this view, linking the purchase to evolving global threats. “We face new nuclear risks as adversaries increase and modernize their arsenals,” he warned. “This commitment strengthens NATO, reinforces the UK’s leadership within it, and supports thousands of jobs at home.”

The purchase of F-35A fighters fits into a broader modernization of the UK’s strategic forces. It comes alongside ongoing efforts such as the construction of four Dreadnought-class nuclear submarines in Barrow-in-Furness and the continued funding of the UK’s sovereign nuclear warhead programme. The government recently allocated £15 billion to this effort, underlining its long-term investment in credible deterrence.

At the same time, the UK reaffirmed its adherence to the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT) and the global goal of disarmament. Officials stressed that while deterrence remains essential in today’s security environment, the country remains committed to eventual global nuclear reductions.

With this latest step, the UK has made it clear that it will not only continue to support NATO’s strategic stability goals but will now play a frontline role in executing them—both in the air and at sea.