Washington is developing a new version of the B61 gravity bomb and increasing the readiness of its nuclear submarines.
The United States will adjust its nuclear deterrence strategy to deal with possible threats from Russia and China, according to a Pentagon report.
In a statement Thursday, the Department of Defense said that “Multiple nuclear adversaries challenge the security of the United States and its allies and partners,” adding that these countries are increasing and modernizing their nuclear arsenals.
In light of this, Richard Johnson, deputy assistant secretary of defense, singled out Russia and China, noting that the United States may need to adjust its 2022 Nuclear Posture Review to maintain nuclear deterrence. However, he noted that the current nuclear modernization effort may not be enough.
According to Johnson, to address those concerns, the Pentagon “It has already taken steps to deploy capabilities that enhance nuclear deterrence and flexibility.” Key elements include the development of the B61-13 gravity bomb and increased readiness of nuclear-powered and nuclear-armed Ohio-class submarines.
The Pentagon announced the development of a new variant of the B61 bomb last October, saying it would replace some of the older versions and provide the United States “additional options against certain more difficult and large-area military targets.” Meanwhile, Washington emphasized that deploying the B61-13 “is not a response to any specific current event” and would not increase the basic nuclear arsenal.
The Ohio-class submarines are the key element of the US nuclear triad and are designed specifically for nuclear deterrence. They can be armed with Trident missiles with a range of up to 12,000 km.
Johnson’s comments come after Russian President Vladimir Putin ordered a change to the country’s nuclear doctrine in late September. The document was modified to stipulate that “an aggression against the Russian Federation and/or its allies by any non-nuclear state with the participation or support of a nuclear state will be considered a joint attack.”
Putin approved the changes on Nov. 19, when the United States and several Western nations allowed Ukraine to use foreign-made long-range weapons for attacks deep into Russia, despite Moscow’s warning that this would escalate the conflict and result in NATO’s direct participation in hostilities.
Earlier this week, Russia carried out a strike against Ukraine using the latest Oreshnik medium-range hypersonic missile, saying it was in response to kyiv’s cross-border attacks using US-made ATACMS and HIMARS systems, as well as US-made Storm Shadow missiles. British manufacturing. .
**PAA Questions:**
## World Today News: Nuclear Deterrence in a Changing World
**Introduction:**
Welcome to World Today News. Today, we delve into the complex and timely issue of nuclear deterrence in a world marked by rising tensions. Joining us are two distinguished guests: **Dr. Emily Carter,** a leading expert on nuclear non-proliferation and arms control from the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace, and **Colonel James Roberts (Retired),** a former US Air Force pilot with extensive experience in strategic nuclear planning.
**Section I: The Changing Landscape of Nuclear Deterrence**
**Host:** Dr. Carter, the Pentagon recently highlighted Russia and China as primary challengers to US security, leading to potential adjustments in the Nuclear Posture Review. 能够您解释一下，在过去几年里，全球核威慑格局发生了哪些变化，以及这些变化如何促成了美国政府当前的立场?
**(Translation: Dr. Carter, the Pentagon recently highlighted Russia and China as primary challengers to US security, leading to potential adjustments in the Nuclear Posture Review. Can you explain what changes have occurred in the global nuclear deterrence landscape in recent years, and how have these changes contributed to the current stance of the US government?)**
**Dr. Carter:** …
**Host:** Colonel Roberts, how do you perceive the impact of Russia’s recent changes to its nuclear doctrine, specifically regarding potential “joint attacks” involving nuclear states? What implications do they hold for US nuclear deterrence strategy?
**Colonel Roberts:** …
**Section II: Modernization Efforts and Specific Weapons Systems**
**Host:** The development of the B61-12 gravity bomb and the increased readiness of Ohio-class submarines are key elements cited by the Pentagon. Dr. Carter, can you discuss the potential implications of these advancements in terms of global stability and the risk of nuclear escalation?
**Dr. Carter:** …
**Host:** Colonel Roberts, many argue that the focus on modernization ultimately perpetuates a dangerous arms race. Do you believe these investments are necessary to maintain a credible deterrent, or are there alternative approaches the US could consider?
**Colonel Roberts:** …
**Section III: Arms Control and Diplomacy**
**Host:** Given the growing concerns surrounding nuclear proliferation and potential conflict, what role do you see international diplomacy and arms control treaties playing in mitigating these risks?
**Dr. Carter:** …
**Host:** Colonel Roberts, considering your experience in strategic planning, what steps believe should be prioritized by the international community to foster dialog and reduce the likelihood of a nuclear incident?
**Colonel Roberts:** …
**Conclusion:**
Thank you, Dr. Carter and Colonel Roberts, for your invaluable insights on this critical issue.
The topic of nuclear deterrence is multifaceted and demands nuanced consideration. We hope this discussion has shed light on the complex challenges and potential pathways forward in a world where nuclear weapons remain a potent and ever-present threat.
We encourage our viewers to continue exploring these issues and engage in informed dialog about the future of global security.
