Estonian minister confirms UK’s plans to buy nuclear-capable F-35 fighter jets

Estonian Defense Minister Hanno Pevkur has announced that the UK plans to purchase squadrons of F-35A fighter jets from the US, with the aircraft capable of carrying nuclear weapons.

Estonia’s capital, Tallinn, has confirmed its readiness to host these NATO allied jets on its territory, Caliber.Az reports via Estonian newspaper.

F-35s have already operated in Estonian airspace and are expected to return soon for air defense missions.

Pevkur emphasised that the jet nuclear capability, regardless of the origin, does not impact Estonia’s stance on hosting them.

“F-35 fighters have already been in Estonia, and they will again soon protect our airspace. If some of these aircraft, no matter which country they come from, have the ability to carry dual-purpose nuclear weapons, it does not change our position on welcoming the F-35. Of course, we are ready to host our allies,” Pevkur said.

By Naila Huseynova