Upgrades to B61 Program Revealed
US Unveils Gravity Bomb Program Plans As Global Tensions Rise
Overt Operator
October 30, 2023
The United States has quietly begun the process of upgrading its B61 nuclear weapons program, sparking concerns among longtime observers who fear that this move could further exacerbate the already tense situation in Europe, the Defense Department announced on October 27.
The upgrades to the B61 program have been openly discussed in budget documents and public statements for years, with Pentagon officials emphasizing that these upgrades are crucial to ensure the modernization and safety of the stockpile. However, the recent arrival of the first upgraded bombs caught some by surprise.
The announcement was made during a meeting in Brussels, just days before NATO commenced its annual nuclear exercise, Steadfast Noon. This two-week exercise involves approximately 70 aircraft and is set to end on Sunday. In a show of force, Russia also conducted a nuclear exercise on Wednesday, simulating a "massive nuclear strike" in retaliation for a hypothetical attack on their country.
While Pentagon spokesman Brig. Gen. Patrick Ryder declined to discuss the specifics of the nuclear arsenal, he emphasized that the modernization of the B61 nuclear weapons has been underway for years. He stated that the plans to safely and responsibly replace older weapons with the upgraded B61-12 versions are part of a long-planned and scheduled effort, completely unrelated to the ongoing events in Ukraine.
However, some experts are skeptical of the timing of these upgrades. Hans Kristensen, director of the Nuclear Information Project at the Federation of American Scientists, pointed out that rushing the upgrades amidst the current geopolitical tensions would be peculiar. He highlighted that officials have repeatedly stated that nuclear weapons are not an appropriate response to the situation at hand.
This, along with other statements from disarmament groups, suggests that the primary message behind the arrival of the upgraded bombs in December may be aimed towards European allies who feel particularly vulnerable to Moscow's aggression.
Tom Collina, director of policy at the Ploughshares Fund, a disarmament group, speculated that the move could be more directed at NATO than Russia. He noted that there are already older B61 nuclear weapons present in Europe, indicating that this upgrade may serve as a reassurance to allies.
As tensions continue to rise, the arrival of the upgraded B61 nuclear weapons adds another layer of complexity to an already volatile situation. While proponents argue that these upgrades are essential for maintaining the safety and security of the stockpile, critics express concerns about the potential escalation of conflicts and the implications for global disarmament efforts.
As the world watches closely, the future of the B61 program and its impact on international relations remain uncertain.