On the recordMay 17, 2012
I oppose amendment No. 11. It would delay research and development funding for the NextGen bomber. The bomber is critical to replacing an aging fleet. The new bomber is needed so we don't raid our readiness accounts. This is about the bomber carrying nuclear weapons. It does a lot more than just carry nukes. It deters aggressors and even provides maritime surveillance, especially in the Asia-Pacific area. Congress opposed a similar amendment last year and, as cochair of the Long Range Strike Caucus, I urge my colleagues to oppose this amendment again this year.
