Estonia Expresses Openness to Hosting British Nuclear-Capable F-35A Jets Amid NATO-Russia Tensions

Estonia has expressed its readiness to host British F-35A fighter jets capable of carrying nuclear weapons, emphasizing openness to cooperation with NATO allies amid rising tensions following Russian airspace violations. This comes after three Russian MiG-31 jets intruded into Estonian airspace for about 12 minutes, prompting NATO to consider rules of engagement and consultations under Article 4. British Prime Minister Keir Starmer announced plans to purchase 12 F-35As, with deliveries expected by the end of the decade, though the U.S. controls the nuclear weapons these jets can carry, requiring Washington's approval for any nuclear strike. While Estonia is willing to host these jets, British military sources caution that deploying strategic nuclear-capable forces in Estonia might provoke Russia and serve more as an agitator than a deterrent, placing the aircraft at high risk in a potential Russian first strike. The F-35As currently rotate through Estonia as part of NATO's Baltic Air Policing mission, which also includes Latvia and Lithuania, nations without their own fighter jets. NATO ambassadors are set to discuss the recent airspace violation and appropriate responses, reflecting heightened concerns over security in the Baltic region.