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U.S. Returns Tactical Nuclear Bombs to RAF Lakenheath for First Time Since 2008

Millions spent on secure storage at RAF Lakenheath support the suspected B61-12 deployment meant to reinforce NATO’s nuclear deterrent.

UK announced last month its plan to purchase numerous US-made F-35A fighter jets. (Photo for Representation)
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Overview

  • On July 16, a U.S. C-17 transport from Kirtland Air Force Base to RAF Lakenheath flew with its transponder on, making its route publicly visible to open-source trackers.
  • Defense analysts interpret that the flight carried B61-12 thermonuclear bombs, marking the first increase in U.S. tactical nuclear arms in Europe since the Cold War.
  • Pentagon budget documents show millions invested in upgraded ‘surety’ facilities at Lakenheath, reflecting years of preparations to handle modern nuclear weapons.
  • The UK’s recent order of F-35A jets certified to carry B61-12 bombs restores a Royal Air Force air-launched nuclear role for the first time since 1998.
  • The U.S. and UK maintain neither-confirm-nor-deny policies on nuclear deployments to preserve strategic ambiguity even as public signaling underscores allied deterrence against Russia.