Air Force’s next nuclear missile at risk after costs spike
By Stephen Losey
Jan 19, 04:37 PM
The next-generation intercontinental ballistic missile dubbed the LGM-35A Sentinel has seen cost overruns of at least 37%, triggering a review process that could lead to a restructuring or even cancellation of the program. (Courtesy of Northrop Grumman)
WASHINGTON — The Air Force’s next nuclear missile program has exceeded its planned costs severely enough to trigger a report to Congress, potentially putting the program’s survival at risk.
The Northrop Grumman-made LGM-35A Sentinel intercontinental ballistic missile has overrun its initial cost projections and incurred a critical Nunn-McCurdy breach, an Air Force spokesperson confirmed to Defense News. The Air Force notified Congress about the breach Thursday.
The Office of the Secretary of Defense will now review the Sentinel program, the Air Force said, and will decide whether to restructure the program, or cancel it entirely.
“Work under the current contract will continue until OSD completes its review of the Sentinel program,” the Air Force spokesperson said. “Maintaining a strong nuclear deterrent is critical to safeguarding our nation and protecting our allies from a nuclear attack.”
https://www.defensenews.com/air/2024/01/19/air-forces-next-nuclear-missile-at-risk-after-costs-spike/