UK to Continue Buying 12 Dual‑Capable F‑35E Fighters

The UK government has confirmed that it will proceed with the purchase of 12 F‑35E Lightning II fighters capable of carrying B61‑12 nuclear bombs. The first aircraft are expected to enter service in the early 2030s.

With this move, Britain will join NATO’s dual‑capable aircraft program, adding another nuclear deterrent element alongside its ballistic‑missile submarines.

The plan will see the UK spend about £2.2 billion on the F‑35 fleet, including the F‑35B and F‑35E variants, and related infrastructure from 2026 to 2030.

The decision has faced criticism at home, with opponents arguing that 12 aircraft are insufficient for operational readiness and that separate infrastructure, training and support will add extra costs.