The new F-35A fighter jets, which the UK plans to purchase with the capability to carry nuclear weapons, have a number of important technical and political limitations affecting their operation and strategic autonomy.
Technical limitations
- Lack of compatibility with British tanker aircraft**
The F-35A cannot be refueled in the air by Royal Air Force tanker aircraft, which limits their range and time on combat patrol without the support of American tankers KC-135 or KC-46.
- Dependence on US infrastructure
To perform long-range operations and maintain combat readiness, the British F-35A will be heavily dependent on American logistics and air resources.
Political dependence
- US control over nuclear weapons
The nuclear bombs placed on the British F-35A remain under US control. The decision on the use of nuclear weapons will be made jointly, and the United States retains the right to approve or reject Britain's plans for their use.
- Limitation of strategic autonomy
This dependence reduces the UK's ability to make decisions on its own in the field of nuclear deterrence, which reflects the peculiarities of transatlantic relations and the NATO alliance.
Although the acquisition of the F-35A with nuclear capabilities enhances the UK's defense capabilities, technical limitations and political dependence on the United States impose significant restrictions on the use of these capabilities. To increase Britain's strategic independence, it will require the development of its own refueling infrastructure and a review of nuclear arsenal control mechanisms.
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