Henrico Times

During a House Armed Services Committee hearing, Vice Chairman Rob Wittman (R-VA) emphasized the need for the Biden administration to accelerate the development of a critical new nuclear capability in order to enhance the strategic posture of the U.S. military. Wittman highlighted the urgency to upgrade equipment, bases, and infrastructure in the U.S. military's nuclear arsenal to deter America's foremost adversaries, China and Russia.

Chair Madelyn Creedon and Vice Chair Jon Kyl of the bipartisan Congressional Commission on the Strategic Posture of the United States testified on the commission's latest report, which emphasizes the importance of developing new platforms to deter nuclear adversaries. Specifically, Kyl mentioned the nuclear sea-launched cruise missile (SLCM-N) as an effective new platform that meets the requirements identified in the report.

Wittman expressed his support for the SLCM-N, stating, "I'm only aware of one system that is deployable in the near-term, is cost effective, and is there before us today: it's the nuclear-armed sea-launched cruise missile, better known as SLCM-N." He asked Creedon if she believed that the development of the SLCM-N capability would help address the deterrence challenges outlined in the report.

Creedon responded by saying that the commission did not intentionally pick winners or losers when it came to specific systems, but she acknowledged that the SLCM-N would address some of the desired capabilities. She emphasized that the commission wanted the Defense Department to determine the best platform based on their needs.

Kyl also affirmed the effectiveness of the SLCM-N, stating, "Yes, SLCM-N would achieve the objective that we set out, whether there are other systems that would be left to the decision makers in the future, including all of you."

Wittman further highlighted the increasing threat posed by China in the nuclear spectrum and the importance of time in developing a low-yield option as a deterrent. Kyl agreed, stating that there was a tight schedule for the refurbishment of nuclear warheads and the development of new platforms. He expressed concern about potential delays and the need to avoid a deterrence gap.

Wittman then asked both Creedon and Kyl if they believed that an 80% solution available in the next 18 to 24 months would be preferable to a 100% solution available in the late 2030s. Creedon emphasized the need for analysis by the Defense Department to determine the right system, while acknowledging that the SLCM-N would have the advantage of being available sooner. Kyl reiterated the importance of prioritizing the strategic deterrent and being aware of short-term gaps in deterrence that may result from replacing old systems.

In conclusion, Vice Chairman Wittman stressed the urgency for the Biden administration to accelerate the development of a new nuclear capability in order to enhance the strategic posture of the U.S. military. The testimony from Chair Creedon and Vice Chair Kyl emphasized the importance of upgrading equipment and developing new platforms to deter nuclear adversaries. The SLCM-N was recognized as a potential solution, but further analysis by the Defense Department is needed to determine the best system. Time is of the essence to avoid a deterrence gap and ensure a strong and effective deterrent against China and Russia.

To learn more, click on this link: https://wittman.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=5353