Weapons - Reliance on US

A disagreement over defence innovation and reliance on US technology

surfaced in the House of Commons during Defence questions. SNP MP Dave
Doogan argued that what he described as an “America-first posture” is
harming UK defence innovation, particularly in relation to the nuclear
deterrent. He said the system relies heavily on US technology, citing
components including “fusing, firing, arming, neutron initiators, the gas
transfer system and the Mark 4 aeroshell.” Doogan also criticised plans
to buy additional F-35 aircraft for what he characterised as
“US-manufactured gravity-delivered nuclear weapons.” He questioned why
the government appeared aligned with US priorities while, in his view,
overlooking European initiatives. “President Trump will put America
first, but it is difficult to understand why this Labour Government seem
keen to do the same, while spurning the innovation opportunity of the £130
billion SAFE programme in the EU,” Doogan told the House.

UK Defence Journal 17th Dec 2025

https://ukdefencejournal.org.uk/snp-says-uk-nuclear-deterrent-is-america-first/