The United States adjusts its nuclear deterrence strategy
Kyiv • UNN
The Pentagon has presented a new strategy of nuclear deterrence by strengthening the nuclear capabilities of other countries. The United States is modernizing its weapons and plans to deter several nuclear adversaries simultaneously.
Numerous nuclear adversaries pose a security challenge to the United States and its allies and partners, according to the United States Department of Defense. The Department, in partnership with the National Nuclear Security Administration, has already taken steps to strengthen nuclear deterrence. This was stated by the Deputy Assistant Secretary of the Pentagon for Nuclear Policy Richard Johnson, according to the website of the US Department of Defense, reports UNN.
We are now in a world where we are confronted by numerous nuclear competitors, numerous states that are building up, diversifying and modernizing their nuclear arsenals, and, unfortunately, prioritizing the role that nuclear weapons play in their national security strategies
He was referring to the growing nuclear capabilities of China and Russia and the possible absence of nuclear arms control agreements after February next year.
According to Johnson, the Pentagon, in partnership with the National Nuclear Security Administration, has already taken appropriate measures, including modernizing the B61-13 nuclear bomb, which has been the main weapon of the US strategic nuclear forces since the end of the Cold War, and increasing the readiness of Ohio-class nuclear-armed submarines.
On November 15, the department submitted a report to Congress describing the US nuclear weapons strategy. According to Johnson, the report takes into account new deterrence challenges posed by the growth, modernization, and increased diversity of potential adversaries' nuclear arsenals.
The report says that the U.S:
- They plan to deter several adversaries with nuclear weapons at the same time.
- Requires the integration of non-nuclear capabilities, where possible, to support the nuclear deterrence mission.
- Emphasizes the importance of escalation management in U.S. planning to respond to a limited nuclear attack or a non-nuclear strategic attack with high consequences.
- Ensures deeper consultation, coordination, and joint planning with allies and partners to strengthen the U.S. extended deterrence commitment.
