No Dr. Strangelove Here: USAF Takes Steps to Beef Up ICBM Security

Dr. Strangelove(click to view larger) In the 1960s dark comedy Dr. Strangelove, a rogue US Air Force general succeeds in usurping the US “fail-safe” security system preventing unauthorized use of nuclear weapons. As a result, a nuclear weapon is dropped on the Soviet Union, the doomsday machine is activated, and the protagonists argue about who gets to ride out the war in mine shafts. In the 21st century, the US Air Force is taking steps to make sure that nuclear-tipped ICBMs stay securely in their silos. Through the ICBM Security Modernization Program, the USAF has launched a number of initiatives to beef up silo security. One of those initiatives is the Remote Visual Assessment Program, which is designed to improve the situational awareness of the security staff around the ICBM silos. To support that program, the USAF awarded Northrop Grumman a $31 million contract… Other initiatives [pdf] under the ICBM Security Modernization Program include installation of concrete headwork barriers at all silos, replacing silo access doors to enable security personnel to secure silo hatches quickly, and adding surveillance cameras to missile alert facilities and GPS tracking to payload transporter vans. The ICBM Security Modernization Program is part of a broader […]