U.S. Considers Nuclear Arsenal Expansion Following Expiration of New START Treaty

The U.S. administration is evaluating options to increase its nuclear arsenal following the expiration of the "New START" treaty, the last significant arms control agreement between the United States and Russia. Reports suggest that these developments could mark the end of decades-long restrictions on the size of the U.S. nuclear stockpile.

Possibility of Nuclear Testing for the First Time Since the 1990s

Emerging information indicates that Washington is contemplating a limited nuclear test, which would be the first since 1992. However, the administration has not disclosed specific details regarding the nature of these potential tests or the types of weapons that may be involved, as discussions continue on various scenarios to bolster nuclear capabilities, including reactivating weapons from reserves.

Implications for Global Nuclear Dynamics

Experts suggest that the anticipated U.S. actions could indicate a shift among major nuclear powers toward a new era of strategic competition, or they could serve as leverage to encourage other nations to engage in negotiations for a new trilateral arms control agreement.

Conclusion of 15 Years of Limitations

The "New START" treaty, which capped deployed nuclear warheads for both the U.S. and Russia at approximately 1,550 each, has concluded after Washington declined a Russian proposal for an informal extension, while discussions for an alternative agreement were ongoing.

U.S. Critique of the Treaty and Focus on Deterrence Enhancement

U.S. officials have criticized the previous treaty for imposing disproportionate restrictions on the United States, arguing that its expiration allows for greater freedom in pursuing nuclear modernization initiatives, which include substantial investments in submarines, bombers, and strategic weapon storage facilities.

Plans to Strengthen Naval Nuclear Capabilities

The U.S. intends to enhance the armament of its "Ohio" class nuclear submarines, each equipped with 24 missile launch tubes. The U.S. Navy had previously disabled four tubes on each submarine to comply with treaty limitations, but the treaty's expiration may enable the reactivation of these tubes, potentially increasing the number of nuclear missiles carried by the submarines.

Political Implications Beyond Military Considerations

Analysts believe that increasing the deployment of nuclear weapons could also carry significant political implications, potentially serving as a tool to encourage adversaries to return to the negotiating table, reminiscent of Cold War-era deterrence and nuclear strategy maneuvers.