National Security Snapshot: Oversight of the DOD Nuclear Enterprise

Modernizing the Department of Defense's aging nuclear weapon systems could cost up to $350 billion over the next 20 years. DOD must keep these modernization efforts on track while also supporting ongoing critical missions.

This Snapshot report summarizes our prior work on DOD's oversight of its nuclear missions and organizations. We've recommended ways to help DOD improve this oversight, including by

clarifying the roles and responsibilities of oversight organizations

establishing methods of communication and coordination among these organizations

reporting risks that affect the nuclear mission, such as increased costs or schedule changes

DOD needs to modernize the Air Force’s B-52 bomber, which has been in service since the 1960s