June 24, 2025, The Hague — British Prime Minister Keir Starmer is set to unveil a major defense initiative at the NATO summit, announcing the acquisition of 12 F-35A fighter jets from the United States. These advanced aircraft, capable of carrying nuclear payloads, signal a significant upgrade to the UK’s military capabilities amid heightened global tensions, according to a government statement reported by Reuters. The move underscores London’s commitment to reinforcing its pivotal role within NATO’s nuclear deterrence strategy.
Unlike the F-35B variants previously acquired for their short-takeoff and vertical-landing capabilities, the F-35A models are designed for conventional runways, offering greater range and payload capacity. This makes them particularly suited for strategic missions, including nuclear deterrence. Defense analysts note that the F-35A’s versatility—capable of deploying both nuclear and conventional munitions—enhances its value as a multi-role asset. The decision to opt for the F-35A is also expected to yield cost savings of up to 25% per aircraft compared to the F-35B, a factor likely to resonate with budget-conscious policymakers.
The purchase is part of the UK’s broader commitment to procure 138 F-35 jets, with 15% of components manufactured domestically. This industrial collaboration is projected to sustain approximately 20,000 jobs across British supply chains, providing an economic boost alongside military advancements. The new aircraft will be stationed at RAF Marham in Norfolk, which is poised to become a central hub for the Royal Air Force’s nuclear-capable operations.
Starmer’s announcement aligns with a comprehensive push to modernize the UK’s armed forces. In early June, he emphasized the need for a “war-ready” military posture, backed by an increase in defense spending to 2.6% of GDP. This strategic pivot responds to escalating challenges in Europe and the Middle East, while reinforcing Britain’s leadership within NATO. The F-35A acquisition is seen as a cornerstone of this agenda, marking the most significant enhancement of the UK’s nuclear arsenal since the Cold War.
However, the focus on nuclear-capable platforms has sparked debate among experts. Some view it as a necessary step to maintain strategic parity in an unpredictable global landscape, while others caution that such investments risk fueling arms races with rival powers. The decision arrives at a delicate moment, with NATO navigates complex geopolitical currents.
Beyond defense modernization, Starmer’s agenda at The Hague includes robust support for Ukraine. Earlier this year, Britain supplied Kyiv with 350 ASRAAM air-defense missiles, funded through revenues from frozen Russian assets—a move that drew sharp criticism from Moscow as “escalatory.” In March, Starmer and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy finalized an agreement to co-produce Ukrainian drones in the UK, deepening bilateral defense ties. At the summit, Starmer is expected to advocate for expanded NATO support for Ukraine, including new military aid packages.
The F-35A acquisition and the UK’s nuclear buildup reflect a dual commitment to national security and alliance leadership. Starmer’s moves position Britain as a proactive force in NATO, but they also invite scrutiny over their implications for global stability. As these plans take shape, observers will be closely monitoring their impact on international relations and the broader balance of power.
