Pentagon Reiterates Prioritization of Nuke Forces in National Military Strategy

The Pentagon released its 2015 National Military Strategy yesterday, outlining its intention to maintain a credible nuclear capability that is safe, secure and effective. “Deterring a direct attack on the United States and our allies is a priority mission, requiring homeland and regional defenses tied to secure conventional and nuclear strike capabilities,” the document states. “Thus U.S. strategic forces remain always ready.” The document mentions that nuclear forces are maintained at the “highest state of readiness, always prepared to respond to threats to the homeland and our vital interests,” and highlights the Pentagon’s intention to invest in sustainment and modernization of the nuclear enterprise.

 

The document specifically names nuclear command and control updates as a strategic priority. “We continue to implement the 2010 Nuclear Posture Review and 2011 New START Treaty while ensuring our national defense needs are met,” the document states. “Concurrently, we are enhancing our command and control capabilities for strategic and regional nuclear forces.”