U.S. Strategic Command (USSTRATCOM) has launched its annual nuclear command and control exercise, Global Thunder 26, from Offutt Air Force Base, Nebraska.
The large-scale exercise, which began on October 21, brings together personnel across America’s nuclear enterprise to test the nation’s ability to deter and, if necessary, respond to a strategic attack.
According to USSTRATCOM, “Global Thunder 26 engages warfighters across the nuclear enterprise, including USSTRATCOM components and subordinate units. Its purpose is to support peace through strength and national security objectives by enhancing combat readiness, assuring worldwide allies and partners, and demonstrating the Command’s warfighting capacity and lethal capabilities.”
The exercise includes extensive bomber flights, missile operations, and submarine readiness drills to ensure the effectiveness and resilience of the U.S. nuclear triad. Global Thunder also validates communication networks and decision-making processes under simulated conflict conditions. USSTRATCOM emphasised that it is an annual training event and “not held in response to world events or actions by any nation or entity.”
Global Thunder has been held each year since 2014, typically running for around ten days. It serves as a key demonstration of U.S. commitment to maintaining a “safe, secure, effective, and credible global combat capability” while assuring allies and deterring adversaries through strength and readiness.
George putting the word exercise in the title, rather than going for the clickbait. Thank you.
Been doing it every year since about 1946… Sad it has to be that way.