UK to expand nuclear deterrent with US fighter jets capable of carrying warheads
Guardian23 hrs
UK to Purchase Nuclear-Capable F-35A Jets
Above: An F-35A Lightning II military jet air display at the Paris Air Show in Paris, France, on June 16, 2025. Image copyright: Nathan Laine/Bloomberg/Getty Images
The Spin
Pro-establishment narrative
This nuclear expansion represents a necessary response to Putin's escalating threats and growing global instability. Russia's military buildup and repeated nuclear saber-rattling demand that Britain diversify its deterrent beyond submarines alone. The F-35A purchase strengthens NATO's collective defense while creating thousands of British jobs.
Establishment-critical narrative
Reintroducing nuclear-capable aircraft marks a dangerous escalation that risks triggering a new arms race in Europe. This decision abandons decades of post-Cold War nuclear reduction efforts and increases the likelihood of nuclear weapons being deployed on British soil again. The move contradicts Britain's previous commitment to nuclear disarmament.