Inside STRATCOM, the core of U.S. nuclear deterrence

China's military buildup adds pressure to replace aging assets

The strategic bomber Boeing B-52 Stratofortress, with a wingspan of 56 meters, has been operated by the United States Air Force since the 1950s. (U.S. Air Force)

KEN MORIYASU, Nikkei Asia diplomatic correspondent

August 23, 2023 16:15 JST

OMAHA, U.S. -- The motto for the U.S. Strategic Command, the military branch responsible for America's nuclear arsenal, ends with an ambiguous ellipsis.

"Peace is our profession ..." is written on the walls of the command's headquarters in Omaha, Nebraska. The slogan is a reminder that its ultimate mission is to deter any adversary and to maintain peace. But should it have to, the U.S. will not hesitate to use its assets, the three dots signal.