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U.K. to Purchase 12 Nuclear-Capable F-35A Fighter Jets

Country is bolstering its nuke deterrence for the first time since the end of the Cold War.

An F-35A Lightning II takes off for routine training on Eielson Air Force Base, Alaska, in 2023. [Credit: U.S. Air Force]
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Key Takeaways:

  • The UK is purchasing a dozen F-35A fighter jets to enhance national security and rejoin NATO's dual capable aircraft nuclear mission, marking the biggest strengthening of the UK's nuclear posture in a generation and reintroducing a nuclear role for the Royal Air Force.
  • This acquisition supports over 20,000 jobs in the UK's F-35 program and was made with the F-35A variant to achieve a 25% cost saving per aircraft for taxpayers.
  • Prime Minister Keir Starmer stated the investment ensures the armed forces have necessary equipment, provides economic benefits across the country, and reinforces the UK's unquestionable commitment to NATO.
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In a bid to boost national security, the United Kingdom has announced it will purchase a dozen F-35A fighter jets.

The decision announced Wednesday comes as the U.K. prepares to join NATO’s dual capable aircraft nuclear mission—which aims to bolster nuclear, conventional, and missile defense capabilities to better deter nuke threats to the alliance.

Caleb Revill

Caleb Revill is a journalist, writer and lifelong learner working as a Junior Writer for Firecrown. When he isn't tackling breaking news, Caleb is on the lookout for fascinating feature stories.

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