Technological Innovation & Integrated Deterrence
TOPIC SPONSOR: AFNWC
The 2022 Nuclear Posture Review charges the nuclear enterprise to increase focus on RDT&E efforts including a robust experimental approach to emerging technologies. Its discussion of nuclear modernization describes a stockpile "capable of pacing threats" and responding "in a timely way." However, the 2019 USAF S&T Strategy declares "Rather than reacting to others’ advances, the Air Force will set an unmatched pace. Instead of looking at where potential adversaries are heading, the Air Force scientific and technical enterprise will predict where adversaries cannot easily go and then ensure the Air Force gets there first." How should the DOD and AF pursue and message technology innovation to support integrated deterrence in the NDS?