WASHINGTON, November 14 (Sputnik) – US Department of Defense review of the nation’s nuclear enterprise that found “systematic problems” will not increase the size of the US nuclear arsenal, Principal Deputy Under Secretary of Defense for Policy Brian McKeon said at a press briefing Friday.
“US nuclear force posture has not changed,” McKeon said, adding that US President Barack Obama’s vision to reduce the US nuclear arsenal remains the goal. The review and recommendations will not affect the “composition or size” of the US arsenal, he added.
Based on recommendations in the internal and external review, US Defense Secretary Chuck Hagel announced on Friday a number of reforms and improvements to the US nuclear arsenal. These include efforts to change the culture and boost morale in the nuclear enterprise, adding new positions and eliminating redundancies, increasing accountability, improving infrastructure and increasing the budget for managing the US nuclear capability.
The internal and external reviews found a lack of investment and support for US nuclear forces, including manning infrastructure and skill deficiencies. If left unaddressed, the report found the problems could undermine safety, security and effectiveness in the future.
