NATO Discusses Readiness of Nuclear Weapons – Stoltenberg

NATO is actively engaging in discussions regarding the readiness and potential deployment of its nuclear arsenal in response to mounting threats from Russia and China, as disclosed by NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg.

In an interview with The Telegraph, Stoltenberg revealed that NATO is contemplating bringing more nuclear weapons into a state of operational readiness.

This move aims to convey a clear message of deterrence to adversaries. He emphasised that consultations are underway among NATO members about the mobilisation of missiles from storage to combat readiness.

Stoltenberg refrained from specifying the number of nuclear warheads to be deployed versus those to be kept in storage.

However, he stressed the necessity of intra-Alliance consultations on these issues, highlighting the importance of nuclear transparency as a cornerstone of NATO’s nuclear strategy. This transparency is intended to prepare the Alliance for what Stoltenberg described as a “more dangerous world.”

He noted a significant shift from a decade ago when nuclear exercises were conducted in complete secrecy. Today, Stoltenberg openly commends the contributions of NATO’s 32 allies to deterrence efforts, singling out the Netherlands for recent investments in dual-capable fighter aircraft designed to carry U.S. nuclear weapons.

“NATO’s goal remains a world without nuclear weapons,” Stoltenberg stated. “However, as long as nuclear weapons exist, we will continue to be a nuclear alliance, because a world where Russia, China, and North Korea possess nuclear weapons, and NATO does not, is more dangerous.”

Stoltenberg expressed concern over China’s substantial investment in modernising its arsenal, predicting that China’s nuclear warhead count could reach 1,000 by 2030.

This projection introduces the possibility of NATO confronting two nuclear-armed adversaries simultaneously—Russia and China—an unprecedented scenario with significant implications for the Alliance.

Stoltenberg’s remarks follow the recent G7 summit, where member states strongly criticised China and Russia. The summit’s communiqué called on Beijing to cease supplying military technologies to Moscow and condemned China’s military activities in the Pacific region.

The United States and the United Kingdom have integrated their nuclear deterrent forces into NATO’s structure, while other European allies contribute by hosting nuclear weapons and investing in launch systems.

Though the exact number of operational nuclear warheads remains classified, estimates suggest the UK has about 40 out of 225 warheads ready for deployment at any time, while the U.S. has approximately 1,700 out of 3,700.

France, the third nuclear power within NATO, maintains its arsenal independently, adhering to its long-standing policy of autonomous deterrence.

Stoltenberg underscored that both the United States and European NATO allies are currently modernising their nuclear deterrent capabilities. The U.S. is upgrading its gravity bombs for nuclear warheads stationed in Europe, while European allies are enhancing aircraft designated for NATO’s nuclear mission.

The UK stands out due to its independent nuclear capabilities, contributing uniquely to the Alliance’s deterrence posture.

Stoltenberg acknowledged the challenges in defence budgeting, especially during periods of reduced tension. He recounted his experience as a former Prime Minister, highlighting the political preference for allocating funds to health, education, and infrastructure.

However, he stressed the necessity of increasing defence expenditures in response to rising tensions—a trend currently observed among NATO members, including the UK and other allies.

“Reality dictates that we must ramp up defence spending when tensions escalate, as we are witnessing now,” Stoltenberg concluded.

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