The Telegraph reported on the possible refusal of the UK to purchase the F-35A

The British government may refuse to purchase American F-35A fighter jets capable of carrying B61-12 tactical thermonuclear bombs due to budget constraints. This was reported on June 8 by The Telegraph newspaper, citing sources.

According to the newspaper, the British government and the country's military leadership discussed this issue over the weekend. The possibility of a complete cancellation of the deal is being considered, as well as the option of postponing the purchase of aircraft for a later period.

"The military leaders are doing everything possible to achieve [the purchase of fighters] and offer different options. Now this is a political, not a military issue," the newspaper quoted its interlocutor as saying.

The fifth-generation F-35A fighters were considered by London as a key element of the modernization of the air force. The main reason for the possible revision of the plans was the lack of funding for defense programs. At the same time, the military department insists on the need to obtain machines, given their ability to use the latest types of thermonuclear weapons.

It should be mentioned: Europe requires a billion euros a year from the UK

The United Kingdom is not ready for such generous contributions for access to the single market

In March, it was reported that the UK had signed a £1 billion contract with the Italian defense company Leonardo. The company will provide the British armed forces with 23 new medium-lift helicopters to work in conjunction with unmanned aerial vehicles.