New Delhi: Amid escalating tensions with Russia, the United States is considering stationing nuclear warheads in the UK for the first time in 15 years, according to a report by The Telegraph. The proposal entails housing nuclear weapons at RAF Lakenheath in Suffolk, with a destructive capacity three times that of the atomic bomb dropped on Hiroshima in 1945.Reinstating nuclear presenceThe decision to station nuclear weapons in the UK marks a significant shift in US policy, reflecting mounting concerns over the geopolitical landscape. In 2008, the US withdrew its nuclear missiles from the UK, citing diminished Cold War threats from Russia. However, recent developments have prompted a reassessment of security measures, leading to plans for a new nuclear weapons facility at RAF Lakenheath.Response to Russian aggressionThe resurgence of tensions between Russia and NATO member states has precipitated this strategic move. Following Russias invasion of Ukraine in 2022, concerns over regional stability have heightened, prompting NATO allies to bolster their defences. The planned deployment of US nuclear warheads in the UK is part of a broader initiative to fortify NATOs nuclear deterrent capabilities in response to Russian provocations.Preparing with modernised nuclear bombWhile the UK government maintains a policy of neither confirming nor denying the presence of nuclear weapons, developments at Lakenheath suggest preparations for housing B61-12 gravity bombs. These modernised bombs, equipped with variable yields of up to 50 kilotons, signify an enhancement of the US nuclear arsenal. The deployment of nuclear-capable F-35A Lightning II jets to the base complements this modernisation effort, reaffirming the US commitment to European security.Escalations, countermeasuresThe prospect of US nuclear weapons on British soil has elicited strong reactions from Russia. Moscow perceives such actions as escalatory and has vowed to respond with countermeasures to safeguard its security interests. Russian officials view this development as a departure from efforts to de-escalate tensions and advocate for the removal of nuclear weapons from European territories.US policy or NATOs leadUnder the NATO nuclear-sharing arrangement, the US maintains nuclear warheads in several European countries, including Belgium, Germany, Italy, the Netherlands, and Turkey. While the US routinely upgrades its military facilities in allied nations, the specifics of nuclear posture remain undisclosed as per US policy.Furthermore, the proposed deployment of nuclear weapons underscores the evolving security landscape in Europe amidst rising tensions between Russia and NATO. The strategic manoeuvre reflects a concerted effort to reinforce deterrence capabilities and uphold regional stability in the face of geopolitical challenges.
