US plans to restore W78 nuclear warhead modernization program
The US National Nuclear Security Administration plans to resume the W78 nuclear warhead replacement program. The cost of implementing the program in the period from 2019 to 2041 is estimated at 10-15 billion USD. This is stated in the report of the US National Accounting Office.
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| A Minuteman-III intercontinental ballistic missile launch. Photo: AP |
The W78 is one of two nuclear warheads of the Minuteman-III intercontinental ballistic missile owned by the US Air Force.
The US Department of Defense is also conducting research into using the W78 nuclear explosive component on submarine ballistic missiles.
The US military has pointed out that the program's revival is related to the need to ensure the security of the US nuclear arsenal.
The United States is undertaking life extension programs to upgrade or replace nuclear weapons components. The ultimate goal is to increase the life of these weapons and ensure improved safety and security of the nuclear arsenal, the report said.
At the same time, experts note that in this way the United States is trying to surpass Russia in the military sphere.
