Episode notes
13 Feb 2026
The expiration of the New START treaty has left the US nuclear arsenal unbounded. The US Air Force is preparing to restore nuclear weapons capability to its entire B-52 bomber fleet and load more warheads onto Minuteman 3 intercontinental ballistic missiles. This move comes amid concerns about potential nuclear escalation and the implications for future nuclear weapon configurations.
The expiration of the New START treaty has led to concerns about the potential for the US to restore nuclear capabilities to its B-52 bombers. While the US has not officially announced plans to increase its nuclear arsenal, the Air Force is prepared to make the B-52 fleet nuclear-capable if directed. This development comes amidst ongoing tensions with Russia and calls for China to join future strategic arms control agreements.