The Air Force Global Strike Command is facing the challenge of maintaining mission readiness for both the bomber and land-based missile legs of the nation’s nuclear triad while also working on the government-mandated recapitalization of these platforms. Gen. Thomas A. Bussiere, the most senior leader of the Air Force Global Strike Command, emphasized the importance of maintaining strategic deterrence posture while fielding new capabilities and ensuring full operational capability of the nuclear triad during this process. The nuclear triad, consisting of land-based intercontinental ballistic missile wings, strategic bombers, and submarine-launched ballistic missiles, plays a crucial role in deterring catastrophic actions from U.S. adversaries.
The recapitalization of the nuclear triad involves upgrading the Navy’s fleet with the new Columbia-class ballistic missile submarine, delivering new bomber capabilities like the B-21 Raider, and replacing the aging Minuteman III ICBM with the new Sentinel. Bussiere highlighted the significance of the triad, stating that it is utilized every day and emphasizing the importance of keeping it fully mission capable. Despite the challenges of maintaining operational capability during a full recapitalization, Bussiere credited the hard work of the men, women, and institutions involved in accomplishing the mission, as well as the support of families and communities around Air Force installations.
Bussiere acknowledged that balancing full operational capability of the nuclear triad during a recapitalization is unprecedented and requires dedication from all those involved. He commended the airmen, their families, and the communities surrounding Air Force installations for their support in achieving this mission. Additionally, he expressed gratitude for the support of the Air Force, the Defense Department, and senior leaders in Congress in AFGSC’s mission to operate and participate in the modernization of the nuclear triad. The challenges of maintaining mission readiness while undergoing recapitalization are significant, but the dedication and support of those involved are crucial in ensuring the success of this important mission.
In conclusion, the Air Force Global Strike Command is working diligently to meet the challenges of maintaining mission readiness for the nuclear triad while also undergoing the government-mandated recapitalization of these platforms. Gen. Bussiere emphasized the importance of maintaining strategic deterrence posture, fielding new capabilities, and ensuring full operational capability of the triad during this process. The recapitalization involves upgrading the Navy’s fleet, delivering new bomber capabilities, and replacing aging missile systems. Despite the unprecedented challenges, the dedication of airmen, families, communities, and the support of various organizations are instrumental in the success of this mission.
