Air Force Officials Publish New Nuclear Operations Doctrine

Air Force officials at Maxwell Air Force Base have published the newest version of Nuclear Operations doctrine June 1 to replace the 11-year old existing doctrine.

One of the most significant updates to new Air Force Doctrine Document 2-12 is the change in the focus of nuclear operations from a Cold War stance to one more aligned with the current global environment. The document outlines the Air Force's responsibility for maintaining effective nuclear forces with the capability to support national security deterrence goals.

"This translates to the ability to create a broad range of integrated effects around the globe to achieve national security objectives," said Gen. Norton Schwartz, the Air Force chief of staff. Achieving this in today's environment means leveraging more than 60 years of experience in nuclear operations to address modern security challenges.

"Our nuclear capabilities integrate with a variety of conventional air, space and cyber capabilities to dissuade and deter potential adversaries," General Schwartz said. The doctrine includes a new chapter that aggregates existing material on safety and security from other areas of the previous edition and expands the discussion and emphasis on nuclear surety.

"Nuclear operations remain essential and credible elements of national security because of Air Force precision and reliability," General Schwartz said. [ANN Salutes Capt Jennifer Lovett, LeMay Center for Doctrine Development and Education]

FMI: www.af.mil