Estonian Defense Minister Hanno Pevkur has stated that the country is prepared to host allied fighter aircraft equipped with nuclear capabilities, if necessary. His comments come in the wake of the United Kingdom’s announcement that it will procure additional F-35A fighter jets capable of carrying U.S. nuclear weapons.
Speaking to local media on June 27, Pevkur noted that Estonia’s position on hosting F-35 aircraft remains unchanged, regardless of whether the jets are equipped with dual-capable systems. “The F-35s have already operated from Estonia and will return as part of NATO rotations,” he said. “We are ready to continue accommodating allied forces, including those flying such platforms.”
The United Kingdom earlier this week confirmed plans to purchase at least 12 more U.S.-built F-35A jets, which can be outfitted with both conventional and nuclear munitions. According to British Prime Minister Keir Starmer, the decision was influenced by what London views as an increasing nuclear threat. The BBC reported that the jets will retain their conventional strike roles but are capable of carrying American-made nuclear bombs if required.
Estonia hosts regular deployments of allied aircraft at Ämari Air Base as part of NATO’s Baltic Air Policing Mission, which safeguards the airspace of Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania. While the UK’s Royal Air Force has operated from Ämari in the past, it is currently contributing to the mission from Poland.
In a separate interview with Postimees, Pevkur reiterated Estonia’s stance, stating that the potential presence of nuclear-capable aircraft from any NATO member would not alter the country’s approach: “We are ready to host our allies, regardless of the configuration of their aircraft.”
