United States develops new nuclear strategy emphasizing tactical weapons

The U.S. Department of Defense is drafting an updated nuclear strategy that places greater emphasis on the use of short‑range, tactical nuclear weapons. The draft, being prepared by Pentagon policy chief Elbridge Colby, seeks to broaden the options available to the president, including potential deployment of the B61‑12 bomb, and is part of the largest modernization effort for the Navy’s nuclear triad in decades.

Lawmakers have voiced concern that expanding the role of tactical nukes could lower the threshold for nuclear use and affect military readiness. One congressional source told NBC News, “It’s hard to imagine any study that is completely opposite to the stance President Trump declared, which called for a stronger nuclear deterrent.” Critics also warn the shift could destabilize global nuclear stability, especially amid tensions with Russia and China.