By U.S. Senator Deb Fischer (R-Neb.)
Scottsbluff Star-Herald
Read the piece below:
When Nebraskans think about our state’s role in national defense, Omaha usually comes to mind. Offutt Air Force Base and U.S. Strategic Command are vital to America’s military readiness, and they deserve that recognition. But another part of our state plays just as critical a role.
In the Panhandle of Nebraska sit roughly 82 of the 450 Minuteman III Intercontinental Ballistic Missiles (ICBMs) that make up the backbone of our nation’s nuclear deterrent. These missiles are housed underground in secure silos, monitored 24 hours a day by teams of missileers working in fortified launch control centers. While the rest of the country goes about daily life, these men and women stand watch every hour of every day — quietly helping keep America safe.
This mission doesn’t happen in isolation. It is supported by Nebraska families who make a home in these communities and by small businesses that supply and sustain the base. The people of western Nebraska are vital partners in this mission. You carry a significant weight of global security on your shoulders.
The Minuteman III system was built during the Cold War. It’s served us well, but it’s time for modernization so we can meet the emerging threats of the future. That’s why the Air Force is transitioning to the new Sentinel missile — and why in the U.S. Senate, I worked to ensure the program stays on track. Now that the federal government has reopened, Congress’ next priority should be passing the National Defense Authorization Act. This year’s bill authorizes more than $4 billion for the Sentinel program, requires at least 400 deployed ICBMs spread across no fewer than 450 sites, and sets a firm deadline of 2033 for completion. I fought to ensure these provisions made it into the Senate’s version of the bill and will continue to fight to include them in the final bill passed by both chambers of Congress.
These steps aren’t about building toward conflict — they’re about making sure conflict never happens. Our ICBMs don’t sit unused for decades — they are used every single day to deter our adversaries. A strong, modern deterrent sends a clear message: no adversary can risk attacking the United States or our allies without facing devastating consequences. That peace of mind is made possible, in large part, by the work happening in western Nebraska.
So to the people of the Panhandle: thank you. Your contributions are essential to our nation’s safety. I will continue fighting on the Senate Armed Services Committee to make sure you have the resources, recognition, and support you deserve to continue this vital mission. Because when Nebraska stands ready, America stands strong.
