In what it called the largest extension of its nuclear deterrent in a generation, the British government said on Tuesday that it will buy a dozen F-35A fighter jets that can fire tactical nuclear warheads.
According to Downing Street, the procurement of the Lockheed Martin aircraft would enable Britain’s air force to transport nuclear weapons for the first time since the end of the Cold War.
Prime Minister Keir Starmer stated in a statement, “My government is investing in our national security because we can no longer take peace for granted in an era of radical uncertainty.”
Britain is strengthening its armed forces, particularly its submarine fleet, and spending more on defense.
