The £1 billion deal to purchase 12 F-35A fighter jets violates the UK's nuclear disarmament obligations, according to an international legal opinion commissioned by the Campaign for Nuclear Disarmament (CND).

They argue that the return of the Air Force's nuclear role violates Article 6 of the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons (NPT), which is signed by 190 countries, including the UK. This article obliges participants to strive in good faith to end the arms race and achieve complete nuclear disarmament.

Earlier, Kir Sturmer announced plans to purchase F-35As for participation in NATO's nuclear mission. These aircraft will be able to carry American B61-12 nuclear bombs, which are stationed at Lakehurst.

CND Secretary-General Sofia Bolt accused the government of violating international law and emphasized that the decision to purchase was made without parliamentary discussion.