Peace through strength

US-built nuke jets 'to make nation safer'

- BY LIZZY BUCHAN in the Hague & DAVE BURKE

BRITONS were warned they should prepare for a war on home soil as the National Security Strategy was unveiled yesterday.

The defence document said: “We have to prepare for the homeland coming under direct threat, potentially in a wartime scenario.”

Keir Starmer announced a £lbillion deal to buy 12 nuclear-ready F35A jets from the US.

It came as Donald Trump launched an angry four-letter rant after Israel and Iran broke their ceasefire.

The Prime Minister unveiled the plans as part of the National Security Strategy, against a backdrop of rising tensions in the Middle East sparked by exchanges between Israel and Iran.

He said: “We can no longer take peace for granted. My Government is investing in our national security, ensuring our Armed Forces have the equipment they need and communities up and down the country reap the benefits.

“Supporting 100 businesses across the country and more than 20,000 jobs, these F35 dual capable aircraft will herald a new era for our world-leading Royal Air Force and deter hostile threats that threaten the UK and our allies.”

The jets, armed with American B61 gravity bombs, will be based at RAF Marham, Norfolk, and will form part of Natos nuclear mission.