US strengthens nuclear deterrence with modernisation, new deployment plans

The United States and its allies face a rising challenge to their security as multiple nuclear-armed adversaries continue to expand and modernise their arsenals, according to the US Department of Defense (DoD).

Richard C. Johnson, US Deputy Assistant Secretary of Defence for Nuclear and Countering Weapons of Mass Destruction Policy, stated that the US now faces multiple nuclear competitors, including China and Russia, who prioritise nuclear weapons in their security strategies, Caliber.Az reports.

In response to this evolving threat landscape, the DoD has indicated that adjustments to the 2022 Nuclear Posture Review may be necessary to ensure nuclear deterrence remains effective, particularly as arms control agreements may become increasingly scarce after February.

Johnson, speaking at a panel at the Centre for Strategic and International Studies’ Project on Nuclear Issues in Washington, D.C., confirmed that the core principles of nuclear deterrence remain solid. However, he acknowledged that current nuclear modernisation efforts may not be sufficient in the long run.

To address these growing challenges, the DoD, in collaboration with the National Nuclear Security Administration (NNSA), has already made significant progress in enhancing nuclear deterrence and flexibility. This includes the deployment of the B61-13 gravity bomb, which can be delivered by aircraft, and the increased readiness of nuclear-armed Ohio-class submarines. The NNSA is responsible for producing the B61-13, a modernised version of the B61 bomb.

On 15 November, the DoD submitted the 791 Report to Congress, outlining the US nuclear employment strategy. This report, named for the US Code Title 10, Section 491, details the adjustments made to previous guidance, considering the increased threats from the growth, modernisation, and diversification of adversaries' nuclear arsenals.

Key points from the report include:

• Plans to deter multiple nuclear-armed adversaries simultaneously.

• Integration of non-nuclear capabilities where possible to support nuclear deterrence.

• Emphasis on escalation management in US planning for limited nuclear attacks or high-consequence, non-nuclear strategic strikes.

• Strengthening US extended deterrence commitments through deeper consultation and coordination with allies and partners.

While nuclear deterrence remains central, the report also acknowledges that it alone cannot address all strategic risks. Arms control, risk reduction, and nuclear nonproliferation remain essential components of US security strategy.

Grant Schneider, Vice Deputy Director for Strategic Stability at the Joint Staff, also contributed to the panel, highlighting the importance of modernising nuclear forces, command and control systems, and supporting infrastructure.

This is necessary to remain adaptable to new threats and challenges as the US prepares for the 2030s.

By Aghakazim Guliyev