The United States is preparing to house nuclear weapons at RAF Lakenheath in Britain for the first time in nearly two decades, according to satellite images and a report from the Federation of American Scientists (FAS). The report indicates that 22 previously deactivated bunkers have been upgraded, with the decision to reactivate Lakenheath’s nuclear capability made as early as 2021. This move is seen as a response to worsening U.S.-Russia relations following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. The FAS states that the upgrades aim to enhance the survivability of Western nuclear reserves and complicate Russia’s targeting strategy, though no nuclear weapons have been confirmed at the base. RAF Lakenheath remains the largest U.S. Air Force base in the UK, hosting nuclear-capable F-15E Strike Eagles and F-35A Lightning II fighters.
Related Posts
Thales Expands in Northern Ireland with New Facility and £1.6B Ukraine Missile Deal
- Veiko Lukmann
- 06/03/2025
- 0
Thales will establish a third facility in Northern Ireland, as announced to Members of the Legislative Assembly (MLAs). Prime Minister Keir Starmer revealed that Thales will supply 5,000 lightweight multirole missiles to Ukraine, in a deal worth up to £1.6 billion. Thales Managing Director Nigel MacVean confirmed a £100 million investment, including the new site and the recruitment of 200 staff over the next two years. Deputy First Minister Emma Little-Pengelly highlighted the economic and defense benefits, emphasizing the impact on local jobs and Ukraine’s war effort. The expansion strengthens Northern Ireland’s role in the UK’s defense industry and bolsters […]
EU Pushes for UK Nuclear Umbrella Amid Fears of U.S. Security Shift
- Veiko Lukmann
- 26/02/2025
- 0
EU governments are urging Britain to extend its nuclear deterrence to Europe, fearing a reduced U.S. security commitment under Donald Trump. Friedrich Merz, expected to become Germany’s next chancellor, is negotiating a €200 billion emergency defense fund with the Social Democrats. A European diplomat stressed that Britain and France must lead European security discussions, as they are the continent’s only nuclear powers. Polish Finance Minister Andrzej Domanski echoed the sentiment, stating that Europe’s defense is unimaginable without the UK. The push reflects growing European efforts to strengthen defense capabilities amid global uncertainty. Original news
UK makes defense cuts, doing away with several warships, helicopters and drones
- Veiko Lukmann
- 21/11/2024
- 0
The UK government announced major defense spending cuts, retiring 46 Watchkeeper drones, 31 helicopters, and five warships, as confirmed by Secretary of State for Defence John Healey. These cuts, aimed at saving £500 million over five years, include the removal of the British Army’s Watchkeeper drones due to persistent delays and cost overruns. A strategic defense review in mid-2025 will evaluate the future of the Royal Marines and the Navy’s ability to maintain escort capabilities. Additionally, 14 CH-47 Chinook heavy-lift helicopters and 17 Puma multirole rotorcraft will be retired, complicating plans to replace the Pumas under the £1 billion New […]