Investment in nuclear sharing continues despite European doubts about US extended deterrence

Investment in Nuclear Sharing Continues Despite European Doubts About US Extended Deterrence

In 2025, debates intensified in Europe over the reliability of US extended nuclear deterrence amid ongoing efforts to strengthen British and French nuclear capabilities. Despite these uncertainties, European investment in NATO’s nuclear sharing arrangements has continued.

European Doubts on US Extended Deterrence

Europe faces growing concerns regarding the credibility of the US commitment to defend the continent with nuclear weapons if necessary. Many European nations worry about the political will and capability of the United States to maintain a credible nuclear umbrella in the current geopolitical climate.

Strengthening British and French Nuclear Forces

In response to these doubts, both the UK and France are boosting their own nuclear deterrents. These efforts aim to reduce dependency on US nuclear forces and contribute to European strategic autonomy.

Ongoing NATO Nuclear Sharing

Despite the skepticism, NATO members continue to invest in nuclear sharing — a policy whereby US nuclear weapons are deployed in Europe and can be delivered by allied aircraft in a crisis. This arrangement reinforces the alliance’s collective defense posture.

"Investment in nuclear sharing reflects Europe's continued reliance on collective defense mechanisms even amid questioning the reliability of US extended deterrence."

The maintenance and modernization of nuclear sharing capabilities underscore the alliance’s commitment to deterrence, signaling that European countries view it as a necessary complement to their national nuclear forces.

The article highlights how, despite growing European doubts about US nuclear assurances, investment in NATO nuclear sharing endures as a central element of collective security.

The International Institute for Strategic Studies — 2025-12-01