With Russia’s invasion of Ukraine and the rise of terrorist groups ISIS and Khorasan in Iraq and Syria, the world clearly remains a dangerous place. The multitude of threats to the U.S. and its allies highlight the importance of U.S. nuclear capability, even in the post–Cold War era.
U.S. nuclear weapons capability remains important for two main reasons: deterrence and counter-strike capability. An effective nuclear deterrence posture is achieved by increasing the credibility of one’s nuclear posture, including tailoring weapons to threaten what adversaries value. Today’s adversaries value their own survival and the tools that enable them to oppress their domestic populations and threaten their neighbors.
According to Lieutenant General Stephen Wilson, the commander of Air Force Global Strike Command (AFGSC), “The United States’ strategic forces provide the nation a safe, secure and effective deterrent that’s ready 24/7.”
The Air Force recently conducted unarmed cruise missile tests to gauge the operability of its nuclear weapons. The Glory Trip 211 was another test of Air Force capability, focused on ground-based intercontinental ballistic missiles and aimed at gauging the range and reliability of the missile system. It was one of nearly 200 similar missile launch tests. Major General Scott Vander Hamm stated that these tests themselves serve as part of the larger deterrence strategy, in that successful launches can serve as a warning to adversaries.
In addition to unilateral testing, the Air Force participated in Valiant Shield, a recent joint forces exercise that was intended to improve coordination between the various branches. A key takeaway of the exercise is that “bomber rotations provide Pacific Air Forces and U.S. Pacific Command commanders a global strike and extended deterrence capability against any potential adversary.”
Under Secretary of Defense for Acquisition, Technology and Logistics Frank Kendall said that the U.S. nuclear deterrent is paramount to U.S. security. Adequate funding needs to be appropriated for nuclear modernization.
Steve Smolinsky is currently a member of the Young Leaders Program at The Heritage Foundation. For more information on interning at Heritage, please click here.
