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

The U.S. administration is exploring options to bolster its nuclear arsenal following the expiration of the New START treaty, the last major nuclear arms control agreement between the United States and Russia. Reports indicate that these developments may signal the end of decades of restrictions on the size of the U.S. nuclear stockpile.

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

According to circulating information, Washington is contemplating conducting a limited nuclear test, which could mark the first such event since 1992. However, the U.S. administration has not detailed the nature of the potential tests or the scale of the weapons that could be deployed, as discussions continue regarding various scenarios to enhance nuclear capabilities, including the reactivation of stored weapons.

Potential Global Nuclear Balance Implications

Experts suggest that the U.S.'s forthcoming actions may indicate that major nuclear powers are entering a new phase of strategic competition, or could serve as leverage to encourage international parties to engage in negotiations for a new trilateral arms control treaty.

End of 15 Years of Restrictions

The New START treaty, which imposed a limit of approximately 1,550 deployed nuclear warheads for both the U.S. and Russia, has ended following Washington's rejection of a Russian proposal for an unofficial extension, while discussions for an alternative agreement were ongoing.

U.S. Criticism of the Treaty and Focus on Strengthening Deterrence

U.S. officials have criticized the previous treaty for imposing unequal restrictions on the United States, arguing that its termination provides Washington greater freedom to develop modernization programs, which include significant investments in submarines, bombers, and strategic weapons storage.

Plans to Enhance Naval Nuclear Capabilities

U.S. plans aim to strengthen the armament of Ohio-class nuclear submarines, each equipped with 24 missile launch tubes. The U.S. Navy had deactivated four tubes on each submarine to comply with treaty restrictions, but the end of the agreement may allow for the reactivation of these tubes, increasing the number of nuclear missiles on board the submarines.

Strategic Messaging Beyond Military Aspects

Analysts believe that the increase in nuclear proliferation could have political dimensions, potentially serving as leverage to bring Washington's adversaries back to the negotiating table, reminiscent of the deterrence and nuclear maneuvering strategies that prevailed during the Cold War.