SNP says UK nuclear deterrent is ‘America-first’

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.

Defence Minister Luke Pollard rejected the criticism and shifted the focus to defence investment and employment in Scotland. He said the government is increasing spending north of the border and supporting domestic industry. “We have rising defence spending in Scotland and more jobs in Scotland,” Pollard said, adding that ministers were investing “more in British defence firms and more in Scottish defence firms.”

Pollard pointed to what he described as new opportunities arising from defence-related initiatives, including “a new Scotland defence growth deal” and activity on the Clyde and at Rosyth. He dismissed the SNP’s concerns, saying: “We just hear moans from the SNP about no new jobs.”