Urgent alert: US must brace for dual combat against Russia and China.
Urgent Action Needed to Address Growing Nuclear Threats from China and Russia
When the Pentagon first devised its plan to invest $1.5 trillion over three decades to modernize its aging nuclear triad, Russia was the only significant nuclear competitor. However, a recent report from a congressionally mandated commission warns that China’s expanding nuclear arsenal and its close relationship with Russia now require the United States to have the capability to deter and defeat both adversaries simultaneously.
Madelyn Creedon, chairwoman of the U.S. Strategic Posture Commission, emphasized the need for immediate action, stating that the current strategy of preparing for one major war is no longer viable in light of China’s trajectory. She testified before the Senate Armed Services Committee, urging the nation to act urgently and acknowledging that the commission did not always see the sense of urgency.
China’s Nuclear Buildup and Provocative Actions
The Pentagon’s annual report on Chinese military power reveals that the People’s Republic of China is rapidly modernizing and expanding its nuclear forces beyond previous projections. Pentagon officials estimate that China currently has over 500 nuclear weapons and is on track to surpass 1,000 by 2030. China’s military options include an air and naval blockade, precision strikes, and even an amphibious invasion to achieve President Xi Jinping’s goal of unifying Taiwan with mainland China.
Former Arizona Republican Sen. Jon Kyl, vice chairman of the Strategic Posture Commission, warns that if China attacks Taiwan, the U.S. cannot assume that Russia will remain uninvolved. With two nuclear powers involved, preventing nuclear war becomes paramount, and deterrence is crucial.
The Need for a New Nuclear Posture
The commission’s report concludes that the Pentagon’s plan to rebuild the nuclear triad will not be sufficient to counter both Russian and Chinese nuclear threats simultaneously. It emphasizes the necessity of a nuclear posture capable of deterring both adversaries. However, the report also acknowledges the challenges of modernization, including delays and budget constraints.
The cost of modernization is projected to be $756 billion over the next decade, while President Biden has requested $105 billion for military assistance to Ukraine, Israel, and border security. Despite the financial implications, the commission believes that these investments are necessary and that U.S. leaders must communicate the urgency of rebuilding the nuclear infrastructure and modernizing the nuclear forces to the American public.
While critics argue against increasing U.S. nuclear capability, members of Congress are taking the report seriously. Sen. Roger Wicker (R-MS) describes the current national security moment as the most dangerous since World War II and emphasizes the need for significant work to address the threats.
What actions should the United States take to address the growing nuclear threats from China and Russia and ensure the maintenance of a credible deterrence posture
A’s military capabilities highlighted the country’s significant nuclear modernization program. China is believed to be expanding its nuclear arsenal, including the development of new warhead designs and delivery systems. The report also noted that China has been enhancing the readiness of its nuclear forces and increasing the number of its intercontinental ballistic missiles (ICBMs) capable of reaching the United States. Additionally, China has reportedly deployed ballistic missile submarines, further strengthening its nuclear deterrent capabilities.
Furthermore, China’s actions in the South China Sea and its territorial disputes with neighboring countries have raised concerns about its assertiveness and its potential use of nuclear weapons to pursue its strategic objectives. The country’s growing influence and military capabilities present a significant challenge to regional stability and the broader security interests of the United States and its allies in the Asia-Pacific region.
Russia’s Aggressive Nuclear Posture
Russia has long been known for its aggressive nuclear posture and its disregard for international norms. The country has been modernizing its nuclear arsenal and developing new types of nuclear weapons, including hypersonic glide vehicles and underwater nuclear drones. These advancements in Russia’s nuclear capabilities have raised concerns about its willingness to engage in nuclear brinkmanship and its potential to use nuclear weapons in a conflict.
Furthermore, Russia’s violation of the Intermediate-Range Nuclear Forces (INF) Treaty and its development of a new cruise missile system in violation of the treaty have further escalated tensions. The treaty, which aimed to eliminate and ban the production of intermediate-range nuclear missiles, played a crucial role in maintaining strategic stability between the United States and Russia. However, Russia’s actions undermine the treaty and increase the risk of a nuclear arms race.
Implications for U.S. National Security
The increasing nuclear threats from both China and Russia have significant implications for U.S. national security. The United States must ensure that it maintains a credible deterrence posture and the capability to respond effectively to potential nuclear aggression from both adversaries. This requires modernizing the U.S. nuclear triad, which consists of strategic bombers, land-based intercontinental ballistic missiles, and submarine-launched ballistic missiles.
Additionally, the United States should strengthen its alliances and partnerships with like-minded countries to counter the growing influence of China and Russia. Collective security measures and shared intelligence capabilities can help in deterring nuclear threats and ensuring regional stability. Moreover, diplomatic efforts should be intensified to engage in meaningful arms control agreements and reduce the risk of a nuclear arms race.
The Need for Urgent Action
The growing nuclear threats from China and Russia necessitate urgent action by the United States and the international community. The global security environment is rapidly evolving, and the United States cannot afford to be complacent. While the United States has made efforts to modernize its nuclear capabilities, it must expedite these efforts and allocate the necessary resources to address the evolving challenges.
Furthermore, the United States should invest in advanced missile defense systems to enhance its ability to defend against potential nuclear attacks. This will not only strengthen its deterrence posture but also provide increased security for its allies and partners.
In conclusion, the growing nuclear threats from both China and Russia pose significant challenges to U.S. national security. Urgent action is needed to address these threats and ensure the maintenance of a credible deterrence posture. The United States must invest in modernizing its nuclear triad, strengthen alliances and partnerships, engage in meaningful arms control agreements, and enhance missile defense capabilities. Failure to act promptly and effectively could have devastating consequences for global security and stability.
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