UK to buy F-35 fighter jets capable of carrying US nuclear warheads
The United Kingdom is planning an upgrade to its nuclear defence. Prime Minister Keir Starmer has announced that the UK will buy 12 new F-35A fighter jets from the United States. These jets can carry normal weapons along with powerful US nuclear bombs.This is one of the biggest changes in Britain's nuclear defence since the Cold War. These US bombs are expected to be kept in the UK, which has not happened since 2008.advertisementUK Prime Minister Starmer said, "In an era of radical uncertainty we can no longer take peace for granted. These aircraft will strengthen our armed forces and support communities across the country through our defence industry."
The new aircraft will be stationed at Norfolk's RAF Marham. In order to prevent enemy attacks, they will be a part of NATO's program that shares nuclear power amongst its members. The UK will continue to abide by all international agreements and regulations. As in Germany, Italy, Belgium, the Netherlands, and Turkey, the United States will continue to control nuclear weapons.JETS WILL CARRY STRONG NUCLEAR BOMBSThe F-35A aircraft are capable of carrying the B61-12, a unique kind of bomb. These bombs are extremely powerful. They can detonate at 0.3, 1.5, 10, and 50 kilotons, according to the Federation of American Scientists. In contrast, the bomb that was dropped on Hiroshima during World War II killed up to 140,000 people and had a 15 kiloton strength.advertisementThe UK's Ministry of Defence does not usually share where nuclear weapons are stored. However, there are vaults at RAF Marham where weapons were kept in the past. There are also older nuclear storage sites at nearby RAF Lakenheath, which is used by the US Air Force.Officials stated that they are expected to support more than 20,000 jobs and involve over 100 UK-based businesses. The jets are made by US company Lockheed Martin. The government also says the F-35A is cheaper than the older F-35B model, saving up to 25% on each aircraft. The UK plans to eventually buy up to 138 of these jets.Starmer said, "Supporting 100 businesses across the country and more than 20,000 jobs, these F35 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."NATO's secretary general, Mark Rutte, welcomed the announcement. He called it "a robust British contribution to the alliance." UK Defence Secretary John Healey said the decision fits into a "NATO-first" strategy and will also boost the UK economy.This comes as the most recent UK defence review issued warnings about the possibility of future attacks on British territory. The review said, "For the first time in many years, we have to actively prepare for the possibility of the UK homeland coming under direct threat, potentially in a wartime scenario."The review also said Russia remains the biggest threat.- EndsMust Watch
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Tulip Siddiq is up against anti-India Muhammad Yunus...., what's her connection with Sheikh Hasina..., she is based in...
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