Hoeven Outlines Growing Need for Nuclear Deterrent, Efforts to Advance MAFB Priorities at Task Force 21 Conference

 

Senator John Hoeven today outlined the growing importance of a modern nuclear deterrent and his efforts to secure critical funding for upgrades to the nation’s forces, including the dual-nuclear mission at the Minot Air Force Base. Hoeven delivered the remarks at the 2018 Triad Conference, an annual event hosted by Task Force 21. Earlier this year, the senator joined members of the task force at the Pentagon to advance the priorities of the Minot base with Air Force officials, including Matt Donovan, Under Secretary of the Air Force, and Lt. Gen. Jack Weinstein, Deputy Chief of Staff of Strategic Deterrence and Nuclear Integration.

“As we continue to face rogue regimes and instability around the world, the efforts of the men and women at the Minot Air Force Base become ever more important,” Hoeven said. “That’s why we’ve worked hard to revitalize our nation’s nuclear forces. This is a goal toward which we continue to make tremendous progress, having secured strong funding this year for new B-52 engines, the missile replacement programs, warhead refurbishment and improved helicopter security for our missile fields. We appreciate the persistence and determination of all of our partners, both from local organizations like Task Force 21 and in the administration, in moving these priorities forward. But there is still more to do, and I will continue my efforts to ensure our nuclear deterrent has the capabilities needed to protect our nation against threats for years to come.”