US signals openness to stationing nuclear-capable bombers in more European NATO states, with Poland and Baltics interested
American officials have indicated a willingness to discuss deploying dual-capable aircraft beyond the six current host nations, according to Financial Times sources, as European allies seek reassurance amid concerns over a potential drawdown of US conventional forces.
Confidential discussions underway
The United States is engaged in strictly confidential talks about the possibility of stationing nuclear-capable bombers in additional NATO member states across Europe. Three people familiar with the discussions told the Financial Times that American officials have signalled a basic readiness to consider deployments beyond the six countries that currently host such aircraft. The talks are taking place within NATO channels, though one source cautioned that a formal agreement on expanding the hosting of American nuclear weapons is not imminent.
The discussions are continuing within NATO.
Eastern flank states express interest
Countries on NATO's eastern flank, including Poland and some Baltic states, have indicated interest in hosting bases for American dual-capable aircraft (DCA), according to two of the sources cited by the FT. The source added that allies closest to Russia's borders have shown the greatest interest. Polish officials have spoken publicly about their desire to host American nuclear weapons. Former president Andrzej Duda called on the United States to extend the DCA initiative to Polish territory, and Warsaw joined a new French initiative this year aimed at exploring the temporary relocation of some of France's nuclear deterrent to allied European countries.
Current nuclear sharing arrangement
The NATO nuclear sharing programme currently includes six allies: Belgium, Germany, Italy, the Netherlands, Turkey, and the United Kingdom. These countries host American DCA aircraft and US nuclear bombs, though Washington retains exclusive authority over their operational use. The programme was created during the Cold War and remains a central element of NATO's deterrence strategy. The aircraft assigned by allied nations, using F-35, F-15, and Tornado fighters, are trained to participate in exercises and missions, while the weapons themselves are stored and guarded by American forces.
Context of European security concerns
The discussions are unfolding against a backdrop of widespread concern in Europe over President Donald Trump's plans to reduce the number of US troops and withdraw key weapons systems from the continent. Two sources explained that Washington's willingness to discuss an expansion of the programme is intended to demonstrate continued US commitment to the nuclear umbrella provided to Europe, even as NATO allies are pressed to assume a greater share of the conventional defence burden.
The United States will continue to use its nuclear weapons to protect NATO members, even if European allies take the lead on conventional forces.
Russian invasion as a catalyst
Russia's invasion of Ukraine and repeated statements by President Vladimir Putin regarding the Kremlin's nuclear capabilities have accelerated interest among some allies in hosting American nuclear infrastructure, the sources said. The FT report noted that Reuters was unable to immediately verify the information, and that the White House, the US Department of Defense, and NATO did not immediately respond to requests for comment.
