Britain to expand nuclear warhead stockpile by over 40% as global threats rise

Britain will grow its nuclear warhead stockpile by more than 40% to ensure its security in a more risky global environment and as it faces new technological threats, Prime Minister Boris Johnson said on Tuesday.

In its security and defense review, Britain said it faced risks from nuclear-armed states, emerging nuclear states and state-sponsored nuclear terrorism, and its nuclear deterrent was needed to guarantee its security and that of its allies. "Some states are now significantly increasing and diversifying their nuclear arsenals," the government said. "The increase in global competition, challenges to the international order, and proliferation of potentially disruptive technologies all pose a threat to strategic stability." The move was criticized by The Elders, a group of former global policymakers who campaign for peace.