Germany could equip fighter jets with nuclear bombs from France or Great Britain

The German Chancellor Friedrich Merz stated that Germany will not acquire independent nuclear weapons, but is considering the possibility that German planes could carry French or British nuclear bombs. This move is part of a European deterrence strategy discussed with French President Emmanuel Macron, which would complement NATO's and the United States' nuclear umbrella. Merz emphasized that Germany is committed through international treaties not to develop independent nuclear weapons, but mentioned that the German Air Force aircraft could deploy nuclear bombs from other European states.

He also highlighted the importance of discussions with France and the United Kingdom to strengthen NATO's European wing. This initiative comes in the context where NATO's nuclear deterrence primarily relies on American nuclear weapons, many of which are stationed in Europe.