UK and France Sign Historic Northwood Declaration to Coordinate Nuclear Deterrents

In a landmark move to bolster European defense, the United Kingdom and France have signed the Northwood Declaration, agreeing to coordinate their independent nuclear deterrents in response to extreme threats to Europe.

On July 10, 2025, during French President Emmanuel Macron's state visit to the UK, both nations committed to a historic agreement that, while maintaining operational independence, allows for coordinated nuclear responses to significant threats. This pact establishes a UK-France Nuclear Steering Group to oversee joint efforts across nuclear policy, capabilities, and operations, marking a significant evolution in European defense strategy.

The Northwood Declaration signifies a deepening of nuclear cooperation between the UK and France. Key aspects include:

• Coordination of Nuclear Deterrents: While maintaining operational independence, both nations agree to coordinate their nuclear forces to respond jointly to extreme threats to Europe.
• Establishment of a Nuclear Steering Group: A UK-France Nuclear Steering Group will be co-chaired by the French Presidency and the UK Cabinet Office. This group will provide political direction and coordinate across nuclear policy, capabilities, and operations.
• Commitment to Non-Proliferation: Both countries reaffirm their full support for the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons and their obligations under the treaty.

British Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer emphasized the significance of the agreement, stating, "On the nuclear agreement that we've reached today... it is truly historic."

French President Emmanuel Macron highlighted the importance of coordination, noting, "The decision is that we don't exclude the coordination of our respective deterrents. It's a message that our partners and adversaries must hear."

The Northwood Declaration reflects Europe's efforts to bolster self-defense mechanisms amid evolving global security dynamics. The agreement comes at a time when the United States' commitment to NATO is perceived as less predictable under President Donald Trump, prompting European nations to assume more responsibility for their own defense.

The enhanced cooperation is expected to strengthen the defense industries of both nations. The UK and France represent nearly 40% of the defense budget of European Allies and more than 50% of European spending on research and technology. The agreement may lead to joint development of defense technologies and systems, fostering economic growth and job creation in the defense sector.

While the Lancaster House Treaties of 2010 laid the foundation for UK-France defense cooperation, the Northwood Declaration marks a significant evolution by explicitly coordinating nuclear deterrents. This level of coordination is unprecedented and signifies a deeper commitment to joint defense strategies.

The Northwood Declaration represents a pivotal moment in European defense policy, underscoring the commitment of the UK and France to jointly address extreme threats to the continent. This historic agreement not only strengthens bilateral ties but also sets a precedent for future defense collaborations in Europe.