Cato Daily Podcast Assessing the Nuclear Triad
Jan 21, 2025
Eric Gomez, a former senior fellow at the Cato Institute and nuclear policy expert, delves into the nuclear triad's critical components: air, sea, and land delivery systems. He argues for their reassessment in light of modern defense needs and emerging technologies like hypersonic weapons. Gomez also discusses the financial implications of maintaining an aging infrastructure versus the necessity of nuclear modernization. His insights challenge current deterrence strategies and emphasize the importance of realigning defense priorities with contemporary threats.
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Nuclear Triad Explained
- The nuclear triad refers to three delivery systems for nuclear weapons.
- These are air-based, sea-based, and land-based systems.
Triad Advantages
- Each leg of the triad offers unique advantages, like the sea leg's second-strike capability.
- Sea-based systems are difficult to detect, ensuring retaliation.
Bombers and Ground Systems
- Bombers offer flexibility and recall options, unlike missiles.
- Ground-based systems primarily serve as targets, diverting enemy warheads.