ABSTRACT
A major consideration for the US is whether the expected outlay
on full replacement of the nuclear triad is justified in the context
of a finite defence budget, and the contribution that nuclear
forces make to overall national defence priorities. The high
expense and modest contribution to conventional operations
are arguably the weakest aspects of the default plan for nuclear
modernisation of the full triad. Funding the plan within the limitations of projected defence budgets will require DoD offi-
cials to delay or cut back purchases of conventional weaponry
and other military capabilities deemed essential to US security.
