The United Kingdom has taken a significant step to enhance its defense and nuclear capabilities by acquiring 12 F-35A fighter jets, capable of carrying nuclear weapons. This announcement will be made by Prime Minister Keir Starmer at the NATO summit in the Netherlands on June 25, 2025. The UK government calls this “the largest expansion of Britain's nuclear power in a generation.” This move will further solidify the UK's role within NATO.
What are F-35A jets?
The F-35A is a fifth-generation stealth fighter jet, primarily manufactured by the American company Lockheed Martin. It's among the world's most advanced and expensive aircraft, boasting remarkable features...
Nuclear and Conventional Weapons:
This jet can carry the US-made B61-12 nuclear bombs and conventional missiles and bombs. The B61-12 bomb can be up to three times more powerful than the bomb dropped on Hiroshima.
Source: aajtak
Long-range and Heavy Armament:
The F-35A fighter can cover over 2,200 kilometers and carry up to 8,160 kilograms of weapons.
Advanced Technology:
Its stealth design, active electronically scanned array (AESA) radar, and data fusion systems make it highly effective in combat.
Difference from F-35B:
The UK already utilizes F-35B jets, which can launch from aircraft carriers but are not nuclear-capable. The F-35A operates from the ground, covers greater distances, and can carry nuclear arms.
Britain’s Plan and NATO Role
This decision comes at a time of increasing global tension, particularly with threats from Russia, China, and others. The purchase has several key objectives...
Source: aajtak
Joining NATO’s Nuclear Mission
The UK will now become part of NATO's “dual-capable aircraft” (DCA) mission, where jets can carry both nuclear and conventional weapons. Currently, nations like the US, Germany, Italy, Belgium, and the Netherlands are part of this mission. Using nuclear weapons would require approval from NATO’s Nuclear Planning Group, the US President, and the UK Prime Minister.
Expanding Nuclear Force
Until now, Britain's nuclear force depended solely on the Royal Navy's four Vanguard-class submarines, carrying Trident missiles. Buying the F-35A jets will give the UK an air-based nuclear strike capability for the first time since the Cold War.
Response to Russia and Other Threats
The UK believes that countries like Russia, Iran, and North Korea are expanding their nuclear capabilities. Defense Secretary John Healey called this purchase a response to "growing nuclear risks."
Source: aajtak
NATO Commitment
Keir Starmer emphasized that Britain's commitment to NATO remains unwavering. He stated that we must be stronger to protect the Euro-Atlantic region, addressing previous criticisms by US President Donald Trump that NATO countries weren't spending enough on defense.
Announcement Timing and Location
Prime Minister Keir Starmer will announce this acquisition on June 25, 2025, at the NATO summit in The Hague, Netherlands. Leaders from 32 NATO countries, including Donald Trump, will attend. The summit will establish a goal to spend 5% of the GDP on defense and security by 2035, significantly higher than the current 2% target. Starmer noted that we cannot take peace lightly, and our government is investing in national security. NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte praised this move as another robust contribution from the UK to NATO.
Economic and Social Impact
This acquisition will also benefit the UK economy and jobs...
20,000 Jobs:
The F-35 program supports over 100 British companies such as BAE Systems, Rolls-Royce, and Cobham. These companies manufacture 15% of the jets' parts, securing 20,000 jobs.
Cost Savings:
The F-35A jets are 25% cheaper than the F-35B, saving taxpayers' money.
RAF Victory:
The Royal Air Force (RAF) has long demanded nuclear-capable jets. This acquisition will strengthen the RAF and give it a crucial role in NATO missions. The jets will be stationed at RAF Marham in Norfolk.
Source: aajtak
What Does This Mean for India?
Britain's move is significant for global security and India...
Response to China and J-35A
China's recent plan to sell J-35A stealth jets globally, with Pakistan as an initial buyer, is addressed by the UK’s acquisition of F-35A, strengthening NATO and allied nations’ power to send a message to China and its allies.
India's Defense Strategy
India currently lacks a fifth-generation stealth jet. Its indigenous AMCA (Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft) is expected by 2035. Britain’s step might inspire India to accelerate defense preparations, like upgrading Rafale and Su-30, and hastening the AMCA program.
Global Stability
The UK's increased NATO role is vital for global stability. India, actively engaged in the Indo-Pacific region via Quad and other alliances, may increase cooperation with the UK and NATO in this changing landscape.
Source: aajtak
Challenges and Controversies
This purchase raises potential challenges and controversies...
Reactions from Russia and China:
Russia and China may criticize this move as it enhances NATO's nuclear power, possibly increasing global tension.
Cost and Budget:
Despite government claims that the F-35A is cheaper than the F-35B, critics argue that the funds could have been used for health or education sectors.
Nuclear Weapons Storage:
The jets will use American nuclear bombs, potentially stored at RAF Marham, raising concerns among arms control experts and peace activists.
NATO Unity:
Donald Trump's doubts over NATO's Article 5 (defense of member countries) challenge alliance unity. The UK’s move also aims to highlight NATO’s importance to Trump.
Other Announcements
The NATO summit will also feature another significant UK announcement...
Support for Ukraine:
The UK will supply Ukraine with 350 air defense missiles, funded by £70 million from interest on seized Russian assets. Starmer noted that Russia must pay for Putin's illegal war, indicating Britain's firm stance against Russia.
