Congress Reviews Rising Costs as US Air Force Ousts Official Over Next-Gen Missile Project
The US Air Force has removed Colonel Charles Clegg from his role overseeing the development of the ‘Sentinel’ intercontinental ballistic missile, meant to replace the aging Minuteman III. This decision comes as Congress launched a review of the program due to a significant increase in costs, now estimated at $131 billion.
Despite challenges, lawmakers agreed to allocate $3.4 billion for the project, $340 million less than requested. The Pentagon and Joint Chiefs of Staff are now tasked with justifying the cost overruns, with much of the funds required for upgrading launch sites and communications infrastructure over a ten-year period.
In light of changing global dynamics, President Biden recently issued updated nuclear weapons employment guidance, recognizing the evolving nuclear landscape. The plan emphasizes deterring nuclear threats from countries like China, Russia, and North Korea simultaneously.