After Defense Secretary Chuck Hagel described the problematic condition of the nation’s nuclear forces, Chairman of the House Armed Services Committee Howard “Buck” McKeon (R-Calif.) said he hopes President Barack Obama is listening.
Hagel proposed a $1.5 billion annual increase in spending to upgrade and improve the safety of the country’s nuclear arsenal. He said the program currently lacks resources, support and effective leadership – and that could impact America’s security.
“Secretary Hagel’s review of the nuclear enterprise reflects the sobering state of our nuclear force and the urgent investment needed to ensure its future effectiveness,” McKeon said.
McKeon said deterrence is “the cornerstone” of our national security strategy, but neglect has left the nuclear program needing a boost to make sure that deterrent remains safe, secure and reliable. He said the Department of Energy must also re-prioritize its nuclear mission, correct for years of underfunding and restore morale.
“Most importantly, I hope the President will listen to his senior civilian and military national security leaders, take this as seriously as they do, and cast aside his Global Zero vision that is in reality unilateral disarmament,” McKeon said. “We can work together to follow the blueprint established by Secretary Hagel and his review and show the leadership our men and women in uniform deserve.”