**UK Looks to Boost Defense Spending and Acquire US-Made Fighter Jets**
The United Kingdom is planning a major overhaul of its defense capabilities, with the aim of increasing spending to 3% of GDP by 2034. A key part of this plan is the acquisition of new fighter jets, specifically the F-35A Lightning stealth model made by Lockheed Martin in the US. According to a report by The Sunday Times on June 1, these jets will be capable of launching tactical nuclear weapons.
This move is largely driven by concerns over the increasing risk of state-on-state warfare, particularly with regards to Russia. The UK’s current military capabilities are seen as insufficient to counter this threat, and the acquisition of F-35A jets is a significant step towards bolstering these defenses.
The British military has a substantial nuclear arsenal, but it can only launch such weapons from its submarines at present. The new air fleet will form a crucial part of the UK’s strategic defense review, which is set to be made public on June 2.
**Boosting Military Spending**
In addition to acquiring new fighter jets, the UK government is also planning to increase spending on ammunition, with £6 billion ($8 billion) allocated for this purpose. This will involve the construction of six new factories to manufacture ammunition. Furthermore, the number of destroyers and frigates in the navy’s fleet is set to be increased from 14 to 25.
The UK government is also considering the implementation of a new missile defense shield capable of protecting against ballistic attacks. While the broad plan to boost British defense spending is ambitious, it will require significant investment over an extended period, with the projected timeframe being between now and 2034.
**Historical Precedents**
Post-Cold War plans for increasing defense spending in Europe have historically been plagued by unclear deadlines and administration handoffs. This has resulted in commitments to increase spending failing to materialize. Therefore, it remains to be seen whether the UK’s plan will meet with a similar fate or if the country will succeed in bolstering its defense capabilities.
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