06/03/2013
https://www.congress.gov...
"For more than 50 years, the Navy's ballistic missile submarine force has provided the most survivable leg of the Nation's strategic nuclear deterrent triad."
"A survivable deterrent retains the ability to conduct an assured retaliatory response even after being attacked."
"Long term, the Navy needs a minimum of 12 SSBNs to provide a survivable force and meet Commander, STRATCOM, requirements."
"The 2010 Nuclear Posture Review confirmed the enduring requirements to maintain a secure and survivable sea-based deterrent."