The U.S. Department of Defense (DoD) recently updated its Nuclear Deterrence Strategy to address escalating threats from nuclear-armed nations like China and Russia. This strategy update, announced on November 15, 2024, involves critical upgrades to the U.S.’s nuclear capabilities. Among these is the enhancement of Ohio-class nuclear submarines’ readiness and the modernization of the B61-13 gravity bomb.
This update is a direct response to the growing nuclear capabilities of China and Russia, coupled with the uncertainty surrounding international arms control agreements. The U.S. aims to strengthen its deterrence posture and maintain nuclear flexibility in an increasingly complex global landscape.
Richard C. Johnson, Deputy Assistant Secretary of Defense, emphasized the necessity of adapting to a world with multiple nuclear competitors. This modernization effort, which includes improving submarine readiness and deploying advanced weapons systems, reflects the DoD’s ongoing commitment to nuclear deterrence. Adjustments to earlier nuclear strategies, such as the 2022 Nuclear Posture Review, may be required to address these emerging threats.
The U.S. Department of Defense updates its Nuclear Deterrence Strategy.
Ohio-class submarines armed with Trident II ICBMs are now on heightened readiness.
Don’t worry, Kremlin—this is just a "special readiness operation” pic.twitter.com/ovoN7DJdWb
— Saint Javelin (@saintjavelin) November 22, 2024
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Fact Check: U.S. Department of Defense Updates Nuclear Deterrence Strategy
Summary of Fact Check
The U.S. Department of Defense (DoD) has updated its Nuclear Deterrence Strategy to address growing threats from nuclear-armed adversaries like China and Russia. The update includes enhancements to the readiness of Ohio-class nuclear submarines and the deployment of the B61-13 gravity bomb2.
What
The U.S. Department of Defense has updated its Nuclear Deterrence Strategy.
When
The update was announced on November 15, 2024.
How
The DoD, in partnership with the National Nuclear Security Administration, has taken steps to enhance nuclear deterrence and flexibility. This includes modernizing the B61-13 gravity bomb and improving the readiness of Ohio-class nuclear submarines2.
Why
The update is in response to the growing nuclear capabilities of China and Russia, as well as the potential collapse of international arms control agreements.
Where
The update was announced by the DoD and involves measures to enhance the U.S.’s nuclear deterrence capabilities.
Key Quotes and Stats
“We are now in a world where we’re facing multiple nuclear competitors” (Richard C. Johnson, Deputy Assistant Secretary of Defense).
“The U.S. remains committed to its longstanding position toward nuclear deterrence” (Richard C. Johnson).
“The DoD submitted a report to Congress outlining the U.S.’s nuclear employment strategy” (Richard C. Johnson).
Examples with Sources in 2024
Enhanced Readiness: The DoD has enhanced the readiness of Ohio-class nuclear submarines.
Modernization Efforts: The deployment of the B61-13 gravity bomb is part of the modernization efforts.
Strategic Adjustments: Adjustments to the 2022 Nuclear Posture Review may be necessary to address new threats.
Sources:
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