War Department Continues Nuclear Modernization

In light of the changing global security landscape, the War Department is considering how to approach modern-era deterrence differently, said Air Force Maj. Gen. Brandon D. Parker, director of global operations at U.S. Strategic Command.

Parker spoke today about modernizing the nuclear triad at the Air and Space Forces Association's Air, Space and Cyber Conference at National Harbor, Maryland.

"We see a lot of promise, both in the programs of record, but also in the legacy systems that we have existing today," he said. "So, while we go through that modernization process, it's equally important that we sustain the capabilities that we have today so that we can continue to deter and, if necessary, respond."

The programs of record include the LGM-35A Sentinel intercontinental ballistic missile, the B-21 Raider stealth bomber, Columbia-class submarines and nuclear command, control and communications upgrades.

The legacy systems include the Minuteman III ICBM, the B-52H Stratofortress bomber, the B-2 Spirit bomber and the NC3, which links space-based capabilities.

Modernization of NC3, Parker said, will include incorporating cybersecurity, designing it to integrate with existing and future systems, and incorporating data analytics tools, automation, machine learning and artificial intelligence to aid operators.

"The nuclear triad is the bedrock of our national defense. There's no element of U.S. military power that can replace the unique deterrence characteristics of nuclear forces," he said.

The triad provides a wide range of options to the president, Parker added.

The 2022 Nuclear Posture Review reaffirmed the nation's commitment to a safe, secure, effective, nuclear force posture, which includes all three legs of the triad, he said, referring to submarines, bombers and land-based missiles that can deliver nuclear weapons.