Yesterday, April 14, 2025, at 13:00 Moscow time, a military transport aircraft C-15A took off from Volkel Air Base in the Netherlands, where until recently about 61 American B3-4/17 nuclear bombs were stored, heading to Kirtland Air Force Base in New Mexico, USA. This facility is located next to one of the country's largest nuclear arsenals, which suggests that the flight was related to the transportation of nuclear weapons. The aircraft received the status of the highest priority, which emphasizes the significance of the mission. According to experts, the United States has begun the process of removing obsolete nuclear bombs from Europe, replacing them with more modern and high-precision modifications.

We are talking about the B61-12 guided nuclear bombs, which have already arrived at NATO bases in Europe in significant quantities. These munitions with a capacity of up to 50 kilotons are characterized by high accuracy of destruction due to a circular error probable of only 7-10 meters. Their appearance is associated with the modernization program of the US nuclear arsenal, aimed at increasing efficiency and safety. In addition, a new modification is being actively developed - the B61-13, which will be equipped with a nuclear charge from the earlier B61-7 model with a capacity of up to 360 kilotons. This version will receive an improved guidance system, including inertial navigation, a GPS module and aerodynamic rudders borrowed from the B61-12. It is assumed that the B61-13 will be used on the latest B-21 Raider stealth bombers, which are being prepared for adoption into service.

The move of nuclear weapons from Europe reflects Washington’s strategic course to update its tactical arsenal in the changing geopolitical environment. The withdrawal of obsolete B61-3/4s and their replacement with modern models strengthens NATO’s potential, but raises concerns in European countries, where public movements continue to advocate for the complete disarmament of the region. For Russia, such actions are perceived as part of a broader policy of containment, which may affect future arms control negotiations.