Amid rising global threats, U.S. Rep. Julie Fedorchak (R-ND) is co-leading the new bipartisan Nuclear Triad Caucus to educate members of Congress and their staffs on nuclear deterrence policy and modernization efforts.
“Nuclear deterrence remains the cornerstone of America’s national security strategy, especially as we face growing threats from China, Russia, and other adversaries. The nuclear triad is our nation’s shield,” Rep. Fedorchak said on Monday. “This caucus will help members of Congress and staff better understand the importance of maintaining a strong, credible nuclear deterrent and the urgent need to modernize the systems and infrastructure that support it.”
On June 8, the congresswoman joined U.S. Rep. Emily Randall (D-WA) to announce creation of the caucus, which aims to elevate the importance of the three legs of the nuclear triad: intercontinental ballistic missiles (ICBMs), submarine-launched ballistic missiles (SLBMs), and strategic bombers.
North Dakota is home to two-thirds of the nuclear triad through the Minuteman III intercontinental ballistic missile mission and the B-52 strategic bomber mission at Minot Air Force Base, while Washington’s 6th Congressional District is home to Naval Base Kitsap and the nation’s sea-based strategic deterrent force of ballistic missile submarines, the lawmakers said.
“Our scientific and military communities remain ready to protect the U.S. from national security threats,” said Rep. Randall. “The bipartisan Nuclear Triad Caucus will help bring staff and members of Congress from all ends of the political spectrum together to promote and advocate for smart, strategic deterrence policies.”
The Nuclear Triad Caucus will serve as a platform for bipartisan engagement between Congress, the U.S. Department of Defense, the U.S. Strategic Command, national laboratories, industry leaders, and strategic deterrence experts.
The group also will highlight the importance of communities that host strategic deterrence missions and infrastructure, and work to advance policies that sustain America’s long-term strategic advantage, said Rep. Fedorchak.
Initial focus areas for the caucus include nuclear modernization programs, strategic force posture, missile defense and command-and-control systems, industrial base resilience, workforce recruitment and retention, and emerging threats posed by China and Russia, she added.