The US Air Force will deploy the latest B61-12 nuclear bombs to the UK alongside fifth-generation F-35 Lightning II fighter jets

We wrote that the US Air Force intends to deploy two squadrons of F-35 Lightning II at the UK Royal Air Force base Lakenheath. Together with the fifth-generation fighters in Suffolk will appear American nuclear weapons.

Here's What We Know

The F-35A stealth aircraft will arrive in the UK as replacements for the fourth-generation F-15E Strike Eagle fighters, which can also carry nuclear weapons. The UK is one of several European countries where US "special weapons" will be located.

By 2007, the US was storing 110 nuclear bombs in the UK. After a pause of more than 15 years, US nuclear weapons are returning to the islands. The US Department of Defence is investing about $50 million to build an infrastructure that will allow the base to house personnel and nuclear weapons.

We are talking about B61 bombs. The US is ready to send the newest B61-12 bombs to the UK along with the older B61-11 bombs. In 2015, tests of the 12th modification took place, the main feature of which is the tail feathering that makes the munition more accurate.

The 495th Fighter Squadron will be the first unit in Europe whose F-35 Lightning II fighters can use the B61-12 nuclear bombs. The fifth-generation aircraft received certification earlier this year.

Source: The Telegraph