Members of the Senate Intercontinental Ballistic Missile (ICBM) Coalition called on Congress and the incoming Trump administration to prioritize nuclear deterrence and modernization of missiles that form the land-based pillar of the U.S. nuclear triad.
ICBM issued a white paper that made the case that nuclear deterrence should be the highest priority of the Department of Defense and that an outdated land-based ballistic missile fleet that dates back to the 1970s should be replaced.
U.S. Sen. John Hoeven (R-ND) said the ICBM force faces a critical transition period.
“Nuclear threats are increasing around the world, and our existing ICBMs will not last forever,” Hoeven said. “The coalition is making a strong case to support the modernization of the ICBM force today so that it can continue to protect us for decades to come.”
It is important to maintain a “peace through strength” strategy in an increasingly dangerous world, added U.S. Sen. Steve Daines (R-MT).
“Our nuclear weapons are our most powerful deterrent and ensuring that they are modernized and capable of meeting the demands of 21st century warfare is essential to our national defense,” Daines said.
The most effective way to sustain a strong deterrent is through a triad of nuclear capable bombers, submarine-launched ballistic missiles, and land-based ICBMs, the paper states.
U.S. Sen. John Barrasso (R-WY) said the nation’s ICBM force plays a critical role as a nuclear deterrent.
“The new administration must be committed to strengthening and modernizing our nuclear arsenal,” Barrasso said. “This will make sure Americans and our allies remain protected.”
Agreeing that national security relies on an effective, up-to-date deterrent system, U.S. Sen. Orrin Hatch (R-UT) said the modernization of the ICBM force is a critical step towards ensuring national preparedness.
“When it comes to protecting our allies and the homeland, we mean business” he said.
Hoeven, Daines, Barrasso and Hatch were among the ICBM coalition members who signed the white paper.