Dayton Reporter

House Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence Chairman Mike Turner (OH-10) recently authored an op-ed in The New York Times, emphasizing the necessity for the United States to invest in its nuclear arsenal and develop a comprehensive strategy for integrated missile defense. This call to action comes amid increasing nuclear capabilities of authoritarian regimes.

Turner highlighted that every nuclear state governed by an authoritarian regime is significantly enhancing its weapons and capabilities, altering the global balance of nuclear power. He argued that the U.S. must modernize its nuclear triad—comprising nuclear-capable bombers, ballistic missile submarines, and ground-based intercontinental ballistic missiles—to maintain a credible deterrent.

"The most pressing threat comes from China," Turner wrote, noting China's alarming nuclear buildup aimed at doubling its number of nuclear weapons. Adm. Charles Richard, former commander of the U.S. Strategic Command, described this growth as "breathtaking." Despite the Biden administration's announcement to realign its nuclear posture to address China's arsenal, Turner contended that sufficient funding has not been allocated.

Turner also pointed to North Korea's provocative testing of nearly 100 missiles over two years and its efforts to build a fleet of nuclear-armed submarines. In the Middle East, Iran has reduced the time required to develop a nuclear weapon while expanding its uranium stockpile and advanced centrifuge operations. Secretary of State Antony Blinken stated in July that Iran’s breakout time is now down to one or two weeks.

Russia's modernization of its nuclear triad and development of space-launched nuclear weapons pose additional threats. The Biden administration declassified intelligence about Russia’s space-nuke program but has provided no further updates.

Turner stressed that the aging Minuteman III missiles need urgent attention and replacement with the new Sentinel system despite budget overruns and delays. He called for bipartisan support for an integrated missile defense system capable of intercepting threats at all stages of flight.

Over the past decade, components of a coordinated missile defense architecture have been tested successfully. Turner emphasized integrating advanced aircraft like the F-35 into this network and coordinating with allies on technologies such as high-energy laser missile defense systems.

In conclusion, Turner urged decisive action and cohesive strategy to ensure that U.S. national defense remains robust against evolving threats.