U.S. Strategic Command emphasises urgent need for nuclear triad modernisation

General Cotton expressed concern over China’s accelerated military expansion, particularly its dual-use military-civilian shipyards and nuclear delivery platforms. He noted that Chinese President Xi Jinping has directed the nation’s forces to be prepared to seize Taiwan by 2027, reflecting a significant shift in regional power dynamics.

Reflecting on the post-Cold War era, General Cotton observed that the United States scaled back its military industrial base, anticipating a prolonged peace dividend. However, the resurgence of great power competition has rendered this assumption obsolete, necessitating immediate action to modernise the nuclear arsenal. ​

Key programmes identified for urgent delivery include the Sentinel intercontinental ballistic missile, the Columbia-class submarine, and the B-21 Raider bomber. General Cotton warned that delays in these programmes could have cascading negative effects on national security.

Additionally, the B-52 bomber fleet requires upgrades, including new engines and enhanced radar and electronic systems, to ensure its continued effectiveness in the modern threat landscape. ​

General Cotton addressed concerns about the financial implications of these modernisation efforts, stating that maintaining a credible nuclear deterrent is cost-effective compared to potential alternatives. He noted that the current funding for the Department of Defense’s nuclear portfolio constitutes approximately 4% of the overall budget. ​

He also emphasised the complementary role of conventional capabilities, such as hypersonic weapons, which offer responsive, long-range, non-nuclear strike options against critical threats. These capabilities provide decision-makers with a broader spectrum of responses across all phases of conflict, aiding in escalation control. ​

The evolving character of warfare, influenced by advancements in data analytics, artificial intelligence, and machine learning, underscores the necessity for timely modernisation. General Cotton cautioned that the window for effective production and modernisation is closing, and failure to act promptly may result in missed opportunities to address these pressing challenges. ​

Source: AFNWC.