A rare glimpse inside frontline US nuclear baseーNHK WORLD-JAPAN NEWS

Key Concepts

• New START Treaty: A strategic arms reduction treaty between the US and Russia, now expired, limiting nuclear weapons.
• ICBM (Intercontinental Ballistic Missile): A missile with a range exceeding 5,500 km, capable of delivering nuclear warheads. Specifically, the Minute Man 3 is mentioned.
• Extended Deterrence: The use of nuclear weapons to deter attacks on allies, essentially providing a nuclear shield for them.
• Doomsday Clock: A symbolic clock maintained by the Bulletin of the Atomic Scientists, representing the likelihood of a human-caused global catastrophe.
• Strategic Bombers: Long-range aircraft, like the B-52, capable of carrying nuclear weapons.
• Nuclear Deterrence: The concept of preventing attack by possessing the capability to retaliate with devastating force.

The Expiration of New START and US Nuclear Readiness

The expiration of the New START treaty earlier this month has removed the last binding agreement limiting nuclear weapons between the United States and Russia, raising significant concerns about a potential resurgence in nuclear arms development. NHK was recently granted rare access to May Air Force Base in North Dakota, a critical frontline base housing both B-52 strategic bombers and ICBMs, to observe the training and readiness procedures in place. This access was reportedly granted, in part, to demonstrate to allies like Japan the US commitment to “extended deterrence.”

May Air Force Base: A Frontline of US Nuclear Strategy

May Air Force Base is uniquely positioned as the sole US base deploying both B-52 strategic bombers and ICBMs, representing a core component of US nuclear strategy. Over 20 B-52 bombers are stationed there, described as a “symbol of American resolve” and a demonstration of commitment to allies. According to personnel at the base, “Everything we do as a nation from a defense standpoint is underwritten by what happens on this base right here.”

ICBMs are stored deep underground to avoid targeting, with 150 launch facilities surrounding the base. The Minute Man 3 ICBMs deployed have a range of approximately 10,000 km and are maintained in a state of 24/7 readiness. The base’s deputy commander emphasized the importance of these weapons for both US defense and “extended deterrence,” stating, “Extended deterrence basically means we have we operate ICBMs or a nuclear deterrent so that you don't have to.” This includes protecting allies in the Pacific region, such as Japan.

Launch Procedures and Personnel Training

The training facility for ICBM launch personnel is subject to stringent security measures. Launch procedures are executed by two-person teams who meticulously confirm each step. The system is continuously maintained, prepared for a potential launch order from the President. A complex protocol is in place to prevent accidental launches.

A 28-year-old launch officer described the initial fear associated with the responsibility, stating, “When I first when I first did this in training, I was really really scared.” However, he emphasized the focus on prevention: “Quite frankly, I really don't don't think about it…because the whole reason why we're here is to ensure that that that day never comes.” He expressed confidence in the extensive training received, stating he would be “ready” if a launch order were ever given.

Concerns Regarding New START’s Expiration and Global Nuclear Risk

The expiration of New START has sparked fears of an acceleration in nuclear development globally. The Doomsday Clock was moved to 85 seconds before midnight this year, reflecting the increased risk of nuclear conflict. A nuclear disarmament expert warned that without New START, “the United States and Russia could begin increasing for the first time in about 35 years the number of long range nuclear warheads on their missiles and and bombers.” This could lead to unrestrained competition, not only between the US and Russia but also with China, which is expanding its own strategic arsenal.

Aging Arsenal and Modernization Debate

The visit to May Air Force Base revealed the significant age of the US nuclear arsenal, with some B-52 bombers dating back to the 1960s. This has led to calls for modernization of weaponry, but concerns remain that modernization could trigger a renewed nuclear arms race.

Trump’s Potential Nuclear Strategy

President Trump has indicated a desire to negotiate a “new and improved” arms control treaty, including China alongside Russia. However, the prospects for a new treaty are uncertain. The recently released national security and defense strategies offer little detail regarding US nuclear strategy, creating a degree of opacity. Benjamin Marx, reporting from Washington, noted that this unpredictability could prompt other nations to enhance their own nuclear capabilities. As Marx stated, the base visit was intended to reassure Japan of US commitment to extended deterrence.

Conclusion

The expiration of the New START treaty represents a significant setback for nuclear arms control. The US maintains a high state of readiness, demonstrated by the operations at May Air Force Base, but the lack of binding agreements with Russia, coupled with the aging arsenal and potential for escalation with China, creates a dangerous environment. The future direction of US nuclear strategy under President Trump remains unclear, adding to the uncertainty and raising concerns about a potential resurgence in the global nuclear arms race.