NATO agrees to modernise nuclear capabilities

Ministers participating in the meeting reiterated that NATO's strategic nuclear forces serve as the ultimate guarantee of Allied security and form the foundation of the alliance's extended deterrence architecture. The NPG stated that allies agreed to enhance NATO's nuclear deterrence mission through modernising capabilities, strengthening planning, and adapting to secure NATO's interests.

During the Cold War, NATO developed a detailed nuclear strategy that encompassed political guidelines for the potential use of nuclear weapons, consultation rules, and common targeting ideas. This historical strategy, adapted to the current security policy framework, could inform future strategy development. Discussions following Russia's invasion of Ukraine have raised questions about the adequacy of NATO's existing nuclear posture and the reliability of extended nuclear deterrence, particularly concerning the role of U.S. nuclear weapons stationed in Europe and the potential reliance on British and French nuclear forces.