Net Assessment A New Nuclear Age: The Sum of All Fears?
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Jul 10, 2025 Delve into the fascinating world of nuclear strategy as the hosts tackle the concept of a "nuclear hurricane". They revisit President Trump's controversial strikes on Iran and explore the evolving challenges of U.S. nuclear capabilities. A thought-provoking discussion on modernizing strategies against threats from China, Russia, and North Korea unfolds. They'll also critique the implications of recent military actions, contemplate national security funding cuts, and assess the importance of maintaining a robust nuclear deterrent amidst escalating tensions.
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Facing a 'Category 5' Nuclear Hurricane
- The "new nuclear age" poses a Category 5 hurricane of global nuclear threats from major powers and proliferating risks.
- U.S. nuclear arsenal requires modernization and centrality in grand strategy to face these escalating challenges.
Counterforce vs. Countervalue Debate
- Counterforce targeting encourages arms races and raises escalation risks by arming to target enemy nuclear weapons.
- A countervalue strategy, targeting civilian assets, might allow a smaller, credible U.S. deterrent and reduce risks and arms competition.
Modernize Nuclear Capabilities Now
- The U.S. should develop new nuclear capabilities like longer range air-launched weapons and increase submarine platforms to meet modern threats.
- Investing in allies' nuclear capabilities and conventional forces is crucial for burden-sharing and credible deterrence.
