The Pentagon is developing a new nuclear strategy focused on preparing for potential regional conflicts involving China or Russia, according to an NBC News report. The classified plan would shift some emphasis from large-scale strategic nuclear responses to limited tactical nuclear options, giving the U.S. president additional response choices during a crisis.

The strategy is intended to strengthen deterrence and reduce the risk that a conventional conflict could escalate into a full-scale nuclear war. The report comes as U.S. defense officials continue warning that Washington faces a growing combined threat from China and Russia, whose military cooperation has expanded significantly.

NBC reported that Pentagon policy chief Elbridge Colby is expected to outline key elements of his approach at a military conference in Nebraska focused on America’s nuclear forces, strategic bombers, and ballistic missile submarines.

The report also notes growing concern within the U.S. defense establishment that China is benefiting from its close military relationship with Russia. U.S. officials believe Beijing has supplied Moscow with dual-use goods, including engines and electronic components used in drones and other weapons systems, while also gaining access to Russian military training, intelligence, and advanced defense technologies. Officials reportedly assess that improvements to China’s air defense and missile capabilities are also aiding the development of its nuclear submarine fleet.

(YWN World Headquarters – NYC)