The government is set to purchase 12 new nuclear-capable fifth-generation fighter jets to join NATO’s nuclear mission.
First time in many decades for the RAF
It will be the first time since the Cold War that the RAF will have a nuclear role after the retirement of previous air-launched nuclear weapons.
The Prime Minister made the announcement at the NATO summit in the Netherlands. He cited that part of the reason for the decision was the situation in the Middle East.
Part of a wider increase in defence spending
A boost in defence spending to 5% of GDP by 2035 was also pledged, with the Prime Minister claiming that he plans for UK defence spending to increase to 4.1% by 2027.
Sir Keir announced that the UK will purchase at least 12 F-35A aircraft capable of handling nuclear weapons “if necessary” as part of his pledge to increase investments in defence, which he claims will help deliver jobs in the UK.
The decision comes after the RAF has been continuously lobbying for a more capable fighter which can handle an increased variety of weapons over further distances.
Similar to existing RAF aircraft
Both the RAF and Navy currently operate the F-35B variant of the aircraft, which is famous for its VTOL (Vertical Take-off and Landing) capabilities, though this is not a feature on the F-35A aircraft.
The move comes after the Strategic Defence Review confirmed that the risk of nuclear threats was becoming increasingly concerning. The Defence Secretary has also stated that the programme will support 20,000 jobs and over 100 British companies.
Supported by the NATO Secretary General
Mark Rutte, the Secretary General of NATO, praised the UK for the move, branding it a “robust contribution”.
Other NATO nations have made similar commitments, with spending across NATO nations expected to be bolstered across the board.
