STRATCOM chief: nuclear recapitalization 'a must-pay'

The head of U.S. Strategic Command views recapitalization of the nation's nuclear infrastructure as "a must-pay for our country's own assurance."

During a Jan. 22 Center for Strategic and International Studies event, Adm. Cecil Haney said the United States' nuclear capability is critical to deterring potential adversaries.

Deputy Defense Secretary Bob Work in December warned of "disproportionate hits to modernization" during fiscal year 2017, as a variety of department priorities compete for funding.

Asked whether budget constraints could justify the removal of one leg of the nuclear triad, Haney emphasized the importance of all three components.

Noting that the 2010 Nuclear Posture Review "concluded . . . that the triad was valuable to our country as a nation," he emphasized the need to maintain all three legs. "It's not just U.S. Strategic Command; it’s about the survivability of our nation."