Vladimir Putin. Credit: photoibo / Shutterstock
A former US Air Force nuclear protection specialist has named three areas in the UK where he believes an adversary such as Russia would target first if global tensions escalated into a wider conflict, i.e., WW3.
What did the nuclear specialist Gene Sticco actually say?
In an exclusive interview with The Mirror, former USAF nuclear protection specialist Gene Sticco said that if conflict escalated, the public should avoid areas close to major US and NATO-linked military facilities.
He added,“Otherwise, the key military centres – Telford, Plymouth, South Yorkshire, and the South East and South West of England.”
When asked to name the single most likely location to be struck, Sticco replied:
“Naval centres – this is the UK’s strength and lifeline. Strike at Plymouth and Barrow-in-Furness.”
His assessment reflects military significance, not official UK Government guidance.
Why these three UK locations were highlighted by Gene Sticco
Each location houses a critical defence facility linked to naval power or logistics.
Plymouth – HMNB Devonport
- Home to HMNB Devonport, widely described as the largest naval base in Western Europe.
- Supports the Royal Navy’s surface fleet and nuclear-powered submarines.
Barrow-in-Furness – Nuclear submarine shipyard
- Hosts the BAE Systems submarine shipyard, the UK’s only facility that designs and constructs Royal Navy submarines, including nuclear-powered classes.
- A long-established strategic asset for Britain’s deterrent capabilities.
Telford (Donnington) – MoD logistics hub
- Site of the Defence Fulfilment Centre and other logistics operations supporting UK Armed Forces.
- Provides storage and distribution of equipment for front-line units.
Sticco’s argument is that military value, not population size, determines strategic targeting.
How the UK Government currently frames the threat environment
While the UK has not issued any warning naming specific towns at risk, its latest reviews note that threats from hostile states are increasing, and that it must be prepared for potential threats. These statements address general defence posture, not imminent local danger.
Last week, Putin said he has ‘no plans to attack Europe,’ as France unveiled new voluntary military service.
But yesterday, (December 2) in Moscow, before heading into meetings with Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner, Putin told journalists,
“We’re not going to war with Europe; I’ve said that a hundred times. But if Europe suddenly wants to fight us and starts, we’re ready right now.”
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