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UK to Acquire More U.S.-Made F-35A Lightning II Fighters to Increase Nuclear Strike Capability
The UK plans additional F-35A purchases to establish a dual-capable nuclear strike capability under NATO. F-35As can carry B61-12 tactical nuclear bombs, restoring RAF airborne nuclear role for the first time since WE.177. Complements existing F-35B fleet aboard Queen Elizabeth-class carriers. Signals major shift in UK nuclear posture.