The United States is discussing the possibility of expanding the deployment of nuclear-capable assets to additional NATO member states in Europe, according to a report by the Financial Times.
The newspaper reported that U.S. officials have signaled openness to extending nuclear hosting arrangements beyond the six countries that currently host aircraft capable of delivering U.S. nuclear weapons. The discussions reportedly involve the potential deployment of so-called dual-capable aircraft (DCA), which can carry out nuclear strike missions.
Citing three people briefed on the talks, the report said the proposal would involve more NATO members participating in the alliance’s nuclear-sharing framework. However, it also stressed that any agreement to expand nuclear hosting is not considered imminent.
Countries on NATO’s eastern flank, including Poland and some Baltic states, are said to be interested in potentially hosting DCA bases. Discussions are reportedly continuing through NATO channels.
Reuters said it could not independently verify the Financial Times report. The White House, the U.S. Department of Defense and NATO did not immediately respond to requests for comment.
The reported discussions come amid ongoing debates over burden-sharing within the alliance and Europe’s role in collective defense.
Elbridge Colby, the Pentagon’s policy chief, has previously stated that the United States will continue to rely on its nuclear arsenal to protect NATO allies, even as European members assume greater responsibility for conventional military capabilities.
U.S. President Donald Trump and several members of his administration have repeatedly criticized European allies for what they view as insufficient defense spending and an overreliance on Washington for conventional security.
