NATO is discussing the possibility of expanding the presence of American aircraft capable of carrying nuclear weapons. Among the interested countries are Poland and the Baltic states.
The U.S. is considering expanding its nuclear presence in Europe and is open to deploying aircraft capable of carrying nuclear weapons in additional NATO countries. This was reported by the Financial Times, citing sources familiar with the discussions.
Currently, American dual-capable aircraft are stationed in six European countries — Belgium, Germany, Italy, the Netherlands, Turkey, and the United Kingdom. If the program is expanded, the number of states participating in NATO's nuclear deterrence system could increase.
This is not about deploying nuclear weapons immediately, but rather about the possibility of expanding the network of bases for aircraft capable of performing both conventional and nuclear missions.
According to the publication, Eastern NATO flank countries are particularly interested in such a move. Among them, Poland and several Baltic states are mentioned. Discussions are taking place within the alliance's mechanisms.
For the countries in the region, this is primarily a matter of additional security guarantees amid the ongoing war between Russia and Ukraine and rising tensions on NATO's eastern borders.
At the same time, the Financial Times notes that no decisions regarding the expansion of American nuclear forces are expected in the near future. Currently, only preliminary consultations and discussions of possible options are underway.
Additional attention to the topic has been drawn by statements from U.S. Deputy Secretary of Defense for Political Affairs Ely Ratner. He emphasized that Washington intends to continue using its nuclear capabilities to protect NATO allies, even if European states take on greater responsibility for conventional armed forces.
The issue of defense spending remains one of the key topics in U.S.-European relations. President Donald Trump and his advisors have repeatedly stated that European allies need to finance their own defense more actively and rely less on American resources.
In this context, the discussion of a possible expansion of U.S. nuclear presence shows that issues of collective deterrence and security remain at the forefront of NATO's attention.
