SENTINEL MISSILE -
DEFENCE
News: The LGM-35A Sentinel, the Air Force's planned next-generation
intercontinental ballistic missile, is facing severe cost overruns that
triggered a critical Nunn-McCurdy breach.
What’s in the news?
About Sentinel Nuclear Missile
The LGM-35A Sentinel, developed
by Northrop Grumman for the USAF, will replace
the LGM-30 Minuteman III ICBMs. Incorporating digital
engineering and a modular open system architecture, it will reduce life-cycle
costs and enhance interoperability.
Equipped with a W87-1 thermonuclear warhead,
it will feature advanced launch, flight, and command systems, and
maintain security during warhead maintenance. The missile will have
a range exceeding 5,500 km, capable of reaching global
targets within 30 minutes.
Background
- The Sentinel nuclear missile program was initiated to modernize
the U.S. ICBM fleet, ensuring a reliable and credible
deterrent against nuclear threats in the evolving global security
landscape.
- The program underscores the importance of maintaining
strategic stability and a formidable defense posture
Key Features
- Modernization: The
Sentinel is designed to replace the Minuteman III missiles,
which have been in service since the early 1970s.
·
This modernization is crucial due to the advancing
threats and the aging infrastructure of the existing missiles.
- Technological Advancements: The
Sentinel incorporates state-of-the-art technologies to
enhance its precision, reliability, and survivability. ]
·
This includes advanced guidance systems,
propulsion technology, and improved warhead delivery mechanisms.
- Strategic Importance: The
Sentinel missile is a critical component of the U.S. nuclear triad, which
also includes submarine-launched ballistic missiles (SLBMs) and
strategic bombers.
·
It ensures that the U.S. maintains a second-strike
capability, which is essential for deterrence.
Source: https://www.defensenews.com/air/2024/07/08/pentagon-keeps-commitment-to-sentinel-nuclear-missile-as-costs-balloon/