US Strategic Command launched Global Thunder, its yearly full-scale nuclear command and control exercise, on Monday, announced command officials. “The United States’ ability to maintain a safe, secure, and effective nuclear deterrent is foundational to our national security and contributes to the security of our allies and partners,” said Adm. Cecil Haney, STRATCOM commander, in the command’s Oct. 17 release. “This exercise, and our continued focus on maintaining key capabilities and skills, ensures USSTRATCOM’s strategic forces remain relevant and ready, 24/7,” he added. Global Thunder is timed to integrate with NORAD and US Northern Command’s air, missile, and homeland defense Exercise Vigilant Shield, according to the release.
The Space Force's first planned satellite launch to begin a new missile warning constellation in medium-Earth orbit has slipped from late 2026 to spring 2027 as a key component remains unproven. But the service is making progress and moving forward with plans for new batches of satellites, the Guardian in charge…
