UK Considers Purchase of US-Made Fighter Jets Capable of Launching Nuclear Weapons
The United Kingdom is planning a significant overhaul of its defence capabilities, with a focus on countering the growing threat from Russia. According to a report by the Sunday Times, cited by The Kyiv Independent, the UK is looking to purchase US-made fighter jets capable of launching tactical nuclear weapons.
The British military currently has a substantial nuclear arsenal, but its ability to launch such weapons is limited to its submarines. The proposed new air fleet, which will form a key part of the UK’s strategic defence review, is expected to include F-35A Lightning stealth fighter jets made by Lockheed Martin. These jets have the capability to launch nuclear weapons, providing the UK with a new platform to deter potential threats.
The Sunday Times, as reported by The Kyiv Independent, stated that the UK’s strategic defence review is largely in response to the increasing risk of state-on-state warfare, specifically the threat of a Russian attack. The review is expected to be made public on June 2 and will outline a broad plan to boost British defence spending to 3% of GDP by 2034.
In addition to the purchase of new fighter jets, the UK government is also seeking to invest £6 billion ($8 billion) in the production of more ammunition, to be manufactured in six new factories. The navy is also set to receive a boost, with the number of destroyers and frigates increasing from 14 to 25. A new missile defence shield capable of protecting against prospective ballistic attacks is also being considered.
The UK’s plans to increase its defence spending are part of a broader effort to strengthen European defences in the face of growing Russian aggression. However, post-Cold War plans for increasing defence spending in Europe have historically been subject to delays and changes in administration.
The proposed defence build-up is a significant move by the UK government to address the growing threat from Russia. As The Kyiv Independent reported, citing the Sunday Times, "the UK is looking to revamp its defence capabilities and on the wish list of new weapons are U.S.-made fighter jets capable of launching tactical nuclear weapons to, in part, counter the threat from Russia."
The UK’s strategic defence review is set to be a major announcement, with far-reaching implications for the country’s defence capabilities. As the threat from Russia continues to grow, the UK’s efforts to strengthen its defences are likely to be closely watched by its allies and adversaries alike.
The Kyiv Independent, a news provider known for its in-depth reporting on European security issues, first reported on the UK’s plans to purchase US-made fighter jets capable of launching nuclear weapons. Their reporting has provided valuable insights into the UK’s defence strategy and the growing threat from Russia.
The UK’s defence build-up is a significant development in the region, and The Kyiv Independent has provided comprehensive coverage of the story. As the situation continues to unfold, it is clear that the UK’s defence capabilities will play a critical role in shaping the country’s response to the growing threat from Russia.
The report also comes as 50,000 Russian troops amass on Ukraine’s border, with concerns growing of a potential large-scale assault. Russian President Vladimir Putin recently stated that he had ordered his military to create a "security buffer zone" in Ukraine.
According to The Kyiv Independent, the UK’s plans to strengthen its defences are part of a broader effort to counter the growing threat from Russia. The country’s defence strategy is likely to be shaped by its commitment to NATO and its relationships with other European countries.
In related news, Sumy Oblast in Ukraine is bracing for a potential large-scale Russian offensive, with residents and officials alike expressing concerns about the growing threat.
Sources:
The Kyiv Independent: UK Looking to Buy Fighters That Can Launch Nukes Amid Broad Defense Build-Up.
Sunday Times: UK plans to buy US-made fighter jets capable of launching nuclear weapons.
