Wayne Allard: “The amendment cuts funds which would require termination of the program, plain and simple. DOD has repeatedly reviewed…”

“The amendment cuts funds which would require termination of the program, plain and simple. DOD has repeatedly reviewed that very question. Each time they have concluded we need 53 additional missiles. Keep in mind, the goal originally was set up that we needed to maintain a submarine force in the Pacific Ocean as well as the Atlantic Ocean. It was determined that, at a minimum, we had to have 14 submarines, and we needed to have them adequately armed in order to provide the defenses we need. The Trident submarine is the core of the U.S. strategic deterrent force, and the Trident force is the most survivable leg of our strategic triad. I think it is important we go ahead and complete this program, recognizing that we are towards the end of manufacturing of the missiles. I think it only makes sense that we complete it and maintain a strong defense. I believe a strong defense does serve as a deterrent, and it helps assure world peace. For that reason, I strongly oppose the amendment of the Senator from Wisconsin.”