Better know a nuke: The United Kingdom

How has the nuclear weapons programme of the United Kingdom evolved from its origins during World War II to its strategic choices during the Cold War? With the current international order in disarray, the United Kingdom has maintained its nuclear arsenal for over 70 years, but its nuclear warheads, missiles, and delivery systems are deeply intertwined with American technology and supply chains. In this episode of The Arms Control Poseur, host Dr Alexander Bollfrass is joined by Dr Marion Messmer, Dr Daniel Salisbury and Sebastian Brixey-Williams, leading experts on British nuclear policy, arms control and international security. Together, they provide a deep dive into the history, challenges, and the future of the UK’s nuclear weapons programme, from its World War II origins to the challenges of the Cold War and today’s geopolitical uncertainties. 


Join the conversation—follow us on X (@IISS_org) or visit the website of our Strategy, Technology and Arms Control research programme: Strategy, Technology and Arms Control | IISS Research programme

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Om Podcasten

The Arms Control Poseur is a thought-provoking podcast series that unpacks the most pressing arms-control issues and discusses measures to combat miscalculation, the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction and their delivery systems, as well as the impact of disruptive technologies. Each episode features in-depth discussions with leading experts and practitioners, offering insights into the challenges and complexities of the intricate world of arms control, disarmament and non-proliferation.


‘The Arms Control Poseur’ is a podcast series produced by the IISS Strategy, Technology and Arms Control Programme on behalf of the EU Non-Proliferation and Disarmament Consortium.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.