The U.S. Navy Strategic Systems Program is working intensively to improve and develop three key weapons systems that are critical to the future of the nation’s nuclear deterrent. The program’s director, Vice Admiral Johnny Wolfe, told the House Armed Services Committee that these systems are the Trident II D5 Strategic Weapons System, hypersonic missiles and the SLCM-N sea-launched nuclear cruise missile under development.
Vice Admiral Wolfe told committee members that “the Navy’s strategic deterrent is at a critical juncture,” stressing that in order for the United States to maintain its advantage in the face of evolving global threats, priority must be given to modernizing the nuclear infrastructure and industrial base. In this context, the development and improvement of these three weapons systems constitute the cornerstones of the United States’ long-term deterrent strategy.
SLCM-N: A New Option for Regional Deterrence
The SLCM-N sea-launched nuclear cruise missile, which is currently under development, is expected to be ready for delivery in 2035, according to Vice Admiral Wolfe. Regarding this new weapon system, Wolfe said, “It brings our decision-makers another option to deter our adversaries. It brings an infrastructure for our triad and certainly a regional weapon and deterrence that we do not have today.” It is envisaged that the SLCM-N will expand the US’s nuclear deterrence options in regional conflicts and will make a significant contribution to the existing nuclear triad. The ability of this missile to be launched from submarines will provide the US with flexibility and survivability.
Acceleration of Hypersonic Missile Program
Vice Admiral Wolfe stated that his command, based on the success of the Trident program, has also undertaken the task of rapidly developing and producing the Navy's first hypersonic weapon system, the Conditional Prompt Strike, and the Land Forces' long-range hypersonic weapon system. Hypersonic missiles offer a strategic advantage because they have the potential to overcome existing air defense systems thanks to their high speed and maneuverability. The acceleration of the US's work in this area can be considered as a response to the developments of similar technologies by its competitors.
Trident II D5: The Strong Pillar of the Nuclear Triad
Vice Admiral Wolfe, who also made evaluations about the Trident II D5 strategic weapon system that provides the sea-based strategic deterrent of the US nuclear triad, said, “The most solid leg of the US nuclear triad is provided by this sea-based strategic deterrent.” Noting that the ballistic missile submarine force deploys a significant number of US nuclear warheads, Wolfe emphasized that the reliability and effectiveness of the Trident system are vital to the national security of the US. The continuous improvement and modernization of this system will continue to form the basis of the US nuclear deterrent.
The Importance of Investing in Workforce and Infrastructure
Vice Admiral Wolfe emphasized that the Strategic Systems Programs Command needs more of its already limited expert workforce and that this expertise needs to be increased. He stated that the development and readiness monitoring of nuclear missile systems is a core mission of the command and is critical to U.S. national security. Wolfe warned, “Our modernization needs cannot be successful without investment in research and development, critical skills for our workforce, and the facilities needed to produce, sustain, and certify our nuclear systems.” These statements demonstrate that in order for the U.S. to maintain its nuclear deterrent capabilities, it is imperative that it invests not only in technological advances but also in qualified personnel and modern infrastructure.
As a result, these critical efforts conducted by the U.S. Navy Strategic Systems Program aim to strengthen the country’s nuclear deterrent posture and prepare for potential future threats. The modernization of the Trident II D5, hypersonic missile development efforts, and the deployment of new systems such as the SLCM-N stand out as an important part of the U.S.’s goal to maintain its strategic superiority. As Vice Admiral Wolfe emphasized, continued investment, a skilled workforce, and modern infrastructure are vital to achieving these goals.
