Why is the UK buying nuclear-carrying fighter jets?
Jun 25, 2025•16 min
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Episode description
The government has announced it is purchasing at least 12 new F-35 stealth jets that can carry nuclear warheads. It's a move that's been described by Downing Street as the most significant strengthening of the nation's nuclear capability in a generation.
So, what are these jets? And why is the UK expanding its nuclear capability?
Sarah-Jane Mee speaks to Dr Thomas Withington, an award-winning analyst and expert in air defence, to understand just how big a change in defence spending this is, what the move means for the UK in NATO, and what it tells us about the shift to make the country war ready.
Producer: Natalie Ktena
Editor: Philly Beaumont
So, what are these jets? And why is the UK expanding its nuclear capability?
Sarah-Jane Mee speaks to Dr Thomas Withington, an award-winning analyst and expert in air defence, to understand just how big a change in defence spending this is, what the move means for the UK in NATO, and what it tells us about the shift to make the country war ready.
Producer: Natalie Ktena
Editor: Philly Beaumont
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