The United Kingdom

 Background

The United Kingdom is one of the nine countries possessing nuclear weapons and has a so called special relationship to the United States - at least since the end of the WWII. It is a very stable partner and supporter of the security policy of the US. It is a permanent member of the United Nations Security Council.

 Current Development

Cooperation continues on the level of advanced technology programs or system-level analysis. In 2003 the Framework Memorandum of Understanding on Ballistic Missile Defense was signed between the two governments and established patterns of cooperation on missile defense issues, especially on the field of research and development.

 Capabilities

The country hosts Upgraded Early Warning Radar (UEWR) in Fylingdales Moor for missile warning and space surveillance missions. Although under jurisdiction of the UK government, RAF Menwith Hill station provides communications and intelligence for the US government. The UK can launch as many as 48 MIRVed SLBMs (on submarines Vanguard and Trident). The UK has tactical missiles in its arsenal too.