UK-France Nuclear Steering Group Advances Progress Under Northwood Declaration

Senior officials and military personnel from the UK and France convened in London to progress nuclear policy under the Northwood Declaration. The Nuclear Steering Group, co-chaired by the UK Cabinet Office and the French Presidency, highlighted strengthened coordination between the two nations' independent nuclear deterrents. The meeting underscored the deterrent effect of combined forces against threats to either country's vital interests. UK participation in France’s Operation Rummy was cited as evidence of growing operational alignment between the nations.

The group discussed France’s ‘Forward Deterrence’ initiative, which was described as enhancing European security and complicating adversarial decision-making beyond NATO’s role. The initiative was framed as a contribution to deterrence in the Euro-Atlantic region. The NSG also reviewed progress since the 2010 Teutates Treaty and the establishment of the UK-France joint testing facility, EPURE. Reciprocal use of sovereign trials facilities in both countries was agreed to further technical cooperation.

Building on prior agreements, the NSG committed to expanding collaboration across a range of technical capabilities. This includes joint exercises, shared research, and enhanced interoperability between nuclear forces. The focus remains on maintaining robust deterrence while adhering to international non-proliferation norms. The meeting reaffirmed the UK and France’s dedication to reinforcing global non-proliferation structures.

The Nuclear Steering Group also addressed ongoing engagement with other Nuclear Weapons States, particularly within the Non-Proliferation Treaty review cycle and the P5 Process. France assumed the P5 presidency from the UK in September 2026, marking a transition in leadership for these multilateral discussions. The NSG emphasized continuity in cooperation despite this change in chairmanship.