Nuclear weapons could soon be hosted in more NATO nations — what it means for defense stocks

The U.S. is said to be considering expanding its nuclear weapons-hosting capability to more European NATO member states. Six NATO member countries — the U.K., Germany, Italy, the Netherlands, Belgium and Turkey — currently form part of the alliance's nuclear weapons-sharing arrangements, and are approved to host U.S. dual-capable aircraft capable of deploying nuclear missiles. But this group could now be expanded to include additional NATO countries in Europe, according to the Financial Times , which cited three people who had been briefed on the highly confidential discussions. Analysts say the move would boost certain defense names involved in the manufacture, maintenance and parts supply chain for dual-capable aircraft, including the likes of BAE Systems , Lockheed Martin and Rolls-Royce . Stock Chart Icon Stock chart icon BAE Systems. Those familiar with the matter suggested countries on NATO's eastern flank, such as Poland and certain Baltic nations — where President Donald Trump last month pledged thousands of new troops — could be interested in hosting nuclear-capable bombers, the FT report noted. The possible expansion comes as the White House looks to scale back conventional military support to the alliance and Europe looks to reduce its reliance on Washington by boosting defense spending amid concerns over the U.S.' commitment to the security pact . …