The UK is negotiating with the United States on the purchase of F-35A fighter jets with the ability to carry tactical nuclear weapons

 F-35A Lightning II

Britain has begun "extremely delicate negotiations" with the United States on the acquisition of F-35A Lightning II fighter jets capable of carrying B61 tactical gravity nuclear bombs. This initiative is supported by Prime Minister Keira Starmer and is aimed at expanding the country's nuclear deterrent in the face of the growing threat from Russia.

According to The Sunday Times, the British government views the F-35A as the second pillar of its nuclear triad, along with the Vanguard-class submarines. These aircraft have a range of about 1,400 km, which exceeds the capabilities of other F-35 modifications, and can be used in scenarios that do not involve a full-scale nuclear war.

The planned purchase will be the most significant expansion of the British nuclear arsenal since the end of the Cold War. In preparation for this step, a strategic review of UK defence is being prepared, which should highlight the need to strengthen defence capabilities and increase transparency in response to the "immediate and urgent" threat posed by Russia.

The F-35A has already been certified to carry the upgraded B61-12 thermonuclear gravity bomb, making them dual—use aircraft capable of carrying both conventional and nuclear weapons. This is the first fifth-generation aircraft with this status, which highlights technological progress and the strategic importance of the platform.