Craig Langford
Craig initially trained as a mechanical engineer, but after a brief and disillusioning stint designing ventilation systems, he pivoted to journalism.
Europe on American weapons purchase spree
Over the past two months, the US State Department has approved more than $3 billion in potential foreign military sales to European nations.
UK, Japan, Italy set 2025 contract goal for new fighter jet
The UK, Italy and Japan have taken the next formal steps in developing their sixth-generation fighter under the Global Combat Air Programme (GCAP), confirming a new joint headquarters and a target to finalise a major international contract by the end of 2025.
Engineers begin repairs on stranded F-35B in India
A team of British engineers has arrived in southern India to begin repairs on a UK F-35B stealth fighter that has been grounded at Thiruvananthapuram International Airport in Kerala following an emergency diversion several weeks ago.
Typhoon jet assembly ends as Unite blames no UK orders
Final assembly of the Eurofighter Typhoon has ceased at BAE Systems’ Warton facility in Lancashire, as existing orders come to an end and no new domestic or export contracts have yet been secured, according to a statement issued by the Unite union on Monday.
US to retain control of nuclear bombs on UK F-35A jets
Defence Minister Lord Coaker clarified that while the UK controls the deployment and use of its F-35A aircraft, any American nuclear warheads they may carry under NATO’s nuclear sharing arrangements would remain under US custody and require US authorisation for release.
Minister defends Indo-Pacific carrier deployments
The UK must continue to deploy naval forces globally, including to the Indo-Pacific, in support of allies and open trade routes, Minister of State at the Ministry of Defence Lord Coaker told the House of Lords.
UK sets 2033 target for F-35A and F-35B procurement
The UK expects to complete procurement of an additional 12 F-35A and 15 F-35B aircraft by 2033, with the initial batch of 48 F-35Bs due for delivery by March 2026.
UK, France and Italy align carriers for Indo-Pacific mission
The UK has confirmed that it is working alongside France and Italy to sequence aircraft carrier deployments in the Indo-Pacific, reinforcing a shared European commitment to regional security.
UK leaves door open for future ice breaker buy
The Ministry of Defence has suggested that a future icebreaker could form part of Britain’s long-term Arctic strategy, though no firm commitment has been made.
UK ‘ready to fight’ Russia but risks remain
Britain would be ready to fight as part of a NATO response in 2025, but senior defence leaders today acknowledged there are still risks to the UK’s fighting readiness.
