Daines Announces Inclusion of Important Nuclear Arsenal Security in Defense Bill

Press Release

U.S. Senator Steve Daines today announced the inclusion of his amendment to provide security for nuclear sites in the 2017 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA).

"This will improve accountability and bring needed security improvements for our nuclear arsenal," Daines stated. "We have an obligation to secure our nuclear weapons at Malmstrom and this will begin doing so."

Daines' amendment requires the Department of Defense to certify what security shortfalls the UH-1N has created, and how it will alleviate those risks with outside resources until the acquisition process for new helicopters is complete.

Daines has long been pushing the Air Force to choose the most expeditious path to replace the Vietnam-era UH-1N's that provide security for our ICBMs.

On May 5, Daines sent a letter to the Air Force requesting the consideration of utilizing National Guard and their HH-60 Blackhawk helicopters.

On May 18, 2016, Daines led the bipartisan ICBM coalition urging the Department of Defense to outline a clear plan for the security of the nuclear missiles stationed in Montana, North Dakota and Wyoming following the news that the Department of Defense failed to approve the Air Forces' request for a faster acquisition process.

In March, Daines led the Senate ICBM coalition in calling on the Air Force to expedite their decision on the course of action to replace Vietnam--era UH-1N helicopters.

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