F-35A
The UK government confirmed plans to acquire at least 12 Lockheed Martin F-35As to bolster its offensive nuclear capability late June 24 on the eve of the NATO summit.
The acquisition of the dual-capable F-35As replaces orders for at least a dozen F-35Bs out of an overall program of record for 138 of the single-engine, stealthy strike fighters in the Royal Air Force’s long-term acquisition plans.
“These F-35 dual-capable aircraft will herald a new era for our world-leading Royal Air Force and deter hostile threats that threaten the UK and our allies,” UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer said in a news release.
The prime minister’s office did not release a timeline for placing the order or receiving deliveries of the F-35As.
The U.S. Defense Department certified the F-35A to deliver the B61-12 nuclear bomb in 2024.
The possibility of an F-35A purchase first appeared in the Strategic Defense Review, which was released on June 2.
“The Strategic Defense Review confirmed we face new nuclear risks, with other states increasing, modernizing and diversifying their nuclear arsenals. And it recommended a new UK role in our collective defense and deterrence through a NATO-first approach,” Defense Secretary John Healey said in a statement.
The 12 F-35As will add an airborne platform to the UK nuclear deterrent force, adding to the continuous at-sea deterrent provided by Vanguard-class nuclear submarines now and Dreadnought-class nuclear submarines in the future.
The UK announcement was greeted by NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte.
“I strongly welcome today’s announcement that the UK will now also join NATO’s nuclear mission and procure the F-35A,” Rutte said.
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