Chairman of NATO Military Committee visits key UK strategic deterrent site

During his visit, the Chairman met with Vice Admiral Sir Clive Johnstone, Commander, Allied Maritime Command and Rear Admiral J Weale, Assistant Chief of Naval Staff Submarines and Rear Admiral Submarines to discuss how the United Kingdom’s nuclear deterrent supports collective security through NATO for the Euro-Atlantic area.

Her Majesty’s Naval Base Clyde, Faslane is home to the core of the Royal Navy’s Submarine Service, including the nation’s nuclear deterrent, and the new generation of hunter-killer submarines. The Royal Navy’s submarines at Clyde naval base have provided continuous at sea deterrence (CASD) for fifty years.

Speaking during his visit to the base, Air Chief Marshal Sir Stuart Peach stated:

‘The UK’s independent strategic nuclear forces are vital to the overall security of the Alliance.  NATO constantly ensures that its nuclear deterrent capabilities remain safe, secure, and effective. I want to take this opportunity to thank the men and women here at Faslane for their hard work and service, frequently performed in arduous conditions. You play an important role in guaranteeing the safety and security of Allied populations and countries’.

NATO remains committed to creating the conditions for a world without nuclear weapons.  The fundamental purpose of NATO's nuclear capability is to preserve peace, prevent coercion, and deter aggression.  Given the deteriorating security environment in Europe, a credible and united nuclear Alliance is essential.