Source · Select Committees · Defence Committee
Recommendation 7
7
Accepted
Explain detailed reasoning for dismissing a second sovereign nuclear deterrent delivery method
Recommendation
It is clear that the nuclear threat has increased in the recent past. The UK already declares its nuclear deterrent to the defence of NATO, the single most significant contribution it can make. Whilst we have not received sufficient evidence to recommend investing in a second sovereign delivery method for nuclear deterrence, we wish to understand why the Government dismissed this option—we recommend it set out its reasoning in detail in response to this Report. (Recommendation, Paragraph 27)
Government Response Summary
The government explains that a submarine-based system remains the most effective deterrent, and outlines investments in F-35A aircraft for NATO nuclear burden-sharing and the sovereign warhead programme, reaffirming its commitment to defining the post-Dreadnought nuclear deterrent within this Parliament.
Government Response
Accepted
HM Government
Accepted
The SDR is clear on the threat – nuclear risks are rising. We are operating in a more uncertain, contested, and deteriorating international security environment. The UK’s approach remains a minimum, credible, independent UK nuclear deterrent, assigned to the defence of NATO. This is delivered through our submarine-launched deterrent, which provides the assured second-strike capability that is the foundation of the UK’s national security. A submarinebased system remains the most effective and proportionate means of delivering the UK’s deterrent objectives, providing the survivability, assurance, and operational independence we need. The UK is stepping up and taking on more responsibility for European security, including a greater leadership role within NATO. For instance, we are procuring F-35A aircraft, deepening the UK’s contribution to NATO’s nuclear burden-sharing arrangements. The decision to purchase F-35As represents our continued commitment to strengthen NATO’s nuclear posture. It will complement, rather than replace, the UK’s operationally independent submarine-based nuclear deterrent. We are also investing in the sovereign warhead programme in this Parliament, which includes sustaining our existing stockpile, developing Astraea—our sovereign replacement warhead programme—and modernising our infrastructure, all while upholding our commitments as a responsible nuclear weapons state. As previously noted in response to recommendation number 5, the Government accepted all 62 recommendations in the SDR, including the recommendation to start to define the requirement for the post- Dreadnought nuclear deterrent within this Parliament.