To help explain how some states are expanding their nuclear capabilities, NATO have prepared this graphic which uses Russia’s expanding arsenal as an example of this trend and compares it with the systems held by the UK and fellow NATO nuclear weapons states France and the United States. We must ensure they can never use their nuclear weapons to threaten us, constrain our decision making, or sponsor nuclear terrorism. Some are significantly increasing and diversifying their nuclear capabilities. The UK has taken a consistent and leading approach on nuclear disarmament but not all states have followed. That is why we must be able to deter the most extreme acts of aggression against us and our NATO allies. The risk of nuclear conflict remains remote, but the threats the UK faces are increasing in scale, diversity and complexity. The UK’s independent nuclear deterrent (video) The threats we face The UK’s independent nuclear deterrent has existed for over 60 years to deter the most extreme threats to our national security and way of life, helping to guarantee our safety, and that of our NATO allies.
