US NATO talk expanding nuclear aircraft deployment in Europe

The United States is in early discussions with NATO allies about potentially expanding the deployment of American nuclear-capable aircraft to additional European countries, according to officials familiar with the talks. The deliberations, which are not expected to lead to immediate changes, focus on extending the alliance's nuclear-sharing arrangements beyond the six nations that currently host such assets.

American dual-capable aircraft, which can deliver both conventional and nuclear weapons, are presently stationed in Belgium, Germany, Italy, the Netherlands, Turkey, and the United Kingdom. Under NATO's long-standing framework, allied pilots train for nuclear missions while the warheads themselves remain under exclusive U.S. control. The reported discussions center on whether to station these aircraft in other member states.

The talks are occurring amid heightened security concerns among NATO's eastern members following Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine in 2022. Countries on the alliance's eastern flank, particularly Poland and the Baltic states, have been vocal in seeking a deeper role in NATO's nuclear deterrence architecture. Polish officials have previously...