US President Joe Biden has endorsed a new strategy aimed at preparing the American military for potential coordinated nuclear threats from North Korea, China, and Russia. According to a recent report by the New York Times, this directive, known as the “Nuclear Employment Guidance,” was approved by Biden earlier this year.
The revised strategy was finalised in March amidst growing concerns over nuclear and missile advancements by these countries. North Korea has continued to enhance its nuclear capabilities and missile technology, China has been rapidly expanding its nuclear arsenal, and Russia's aggressive posture has raised alarms about its nuclear intentions.
The Nuclear Employment Guidance document, which is updated approximately every four years, is a highly classified report with limited distribution. Only a select group of security officials and Pentagon commanders receive hard copies.
During a forum hosted by the Arms Control Association in June, Pranay Vaddi, a senior director for arms control on the National Security Council, revealed that Biden had indeed updated the nuclear weapons employment guidance.
Vaddi highlighted the accelerated pace at which North Korea, China, and Russia are expanding and diversifying their nuclear weapons stockpiles. This development has prompted the US to reassess and adapt its own nuclear posture and capabilities.
Vaddi emphasised that the US must adjust to the evolving nuclear landscape to effectively deter these growing threats. He described this period as a "new" nuclear era, necessitating a strategic shift.
Vipin Narang, a former acting assistant Secretary of Defence for space policy, further elaborated on the updated guidance. He noted that the recent adjustments were designed to account for the presence of multiple nuclear-armed adversaries. In particular, the updated guidance addresses the significant expansion and diversification of China’s nuclear arsenal.
Recent developments have heightened these concerns. During President Vladimir Putin's visit to Pyongyang in June, Russia and North Korea signed a “comprehensive strategic partnership” treaty.
Additionally, Russia and China reaffirmed their “no limits” partnership during a summit in Beijing earlier this year. These alliances have been viewed with concern in Washington, especially given China’s support for Russia’s military-industrial capabilities.
The Biden administration has repeatedly criticised Beijing for its role in bolstering Russia’s military resources, further straining US-China relations. As these geopolitical dynamics evolve, the updated Nuclear Employment Guidance reflects the US's commitment to adjusting its strategic posture in response to an increasingly complex nuclear threat environment.
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