The Nuclear Sea-Launched Cruise Missile (SLCM-N): Implication for U.S. nuclear strategy and arms control
Abstract
In May 2021, soon after taking office, the Biden administration confirmed the decision to fund the NucleaSea-launched Cruise Missile (SLCM-N), one of the most controversial programs of Donald Trump’s term. The decision was received with surprise by some analysts: Joseph Biden had argued against this new weapon during his campaign. Finally, after considerable discussion within the government and the armed forces, the Democratic administration appears to have reconsidered its decision and canceled the SLCM-N program.
In anticipation of the NPR 2022, which is expected to be unveiled in the near future, the cancellation of SLCM-N can be interpreted as an indication of the Biden administration’s approach to nuclear strategy. A couple of central questions remain. What are the implications of this decision for U.S. nuclear strategy? Which American institutions are involved in this strategic debate? Beyond the United States itself, what international tendencies will these decisions promote in terms of arms control and nuclear risk reduction?
About the Author
Douglas de Quadros Rocha is a doctoral researcher in the Strategy Department of the Magellan Laboratory (EA 3713, IAE, Lyon III) and head of the Nuclear Studies Unit at the Institute for Strategy and Defense Studies (IESD, Faculty of Law, Lyon III). He is a doctoral student in political science at the Université Jean Moulin Lyon-III, where he is writing a thesis on France's nuclear deterrence and arms control strategy. His research focuses on nuclear issues (deterrence, non-proliferation, arms control and disarmament), French deterrence doctrine and strategic risk reduction.
The strategic debate underway in Washington is only the consequence of a deeper evolving process of nuclear deterrence that gradually integrates other military domains. The other side of the coin, arms control must also be adapted to the new strategic conditions in order to remain a meaningful instrument in diplomatic relations.
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