According to The Sunday Times, air-launched nuclear capabilities could soon be returning to the Royal Air Force. Britain is exploring the potential return of air-delivered nuclear weapons, in what officials are describing as a response to a “new era of threat” posed by Russia. At present, the UK’s nuclear deterrent relies solely on the Trident submarine-based system. Introducing air-launched capabilities would diversify delivery options and align Britain more closely with NATO allies such as the United States, which maintains land, sea, and air-based nuclear platforms. Although the Strategic Defence Review is not expected to commit explicitly to air-launched nuclear systems, it will recommend enhancing the UK’s contribution to NATO’s shared deterrent and maintaining industrial readiness for rearmament.

Source: The Times June 01, 2025 13:47 UTC