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Armed Services Committee Republicans Comment on Air Force Decision to Take Disciplinary Action against Air Force Officers Connected to Nuclear Deficiencies
Washington D.C. – The senior Republican on the House Armed Services Committee and the top Republicans on the four subcommittee’s of jurisdiction today commented on the U.S. Air Force’s announcement that administrative action will be taken against six general officers and nine colonels in connection with the mistaken shipment of four Intercontinental Ballistic Missiles (ICBM) nose-cone fuse assemblies to Taiwan. Today’s action by the Air Force leadership is a result of a comprehensive review conducted by Admiral Kirkland Donald and his subsequent May report to the Secretary of Defense.
Rep. Duncan Hunter (R-CA), Ranking Republican of the House Armed Services Committee:
“Today’s action by the Air Force is tough medicine that follows the tradition of a military system based on accountability. Clearly, it is time to provide a renewed focus on America’s strategic mission.”
Rep. Jim Saxton (R-AL), Ranking Republican of the Air and Land Forces Subcommittee:
“Americans must have trust and confidence in their Armed Services. While I’m grateful for their service and commitment to our nation, I am pleased that the Air Force took severe administrative action against the fifteen officers associated with the incident. I urge the Air Force leadership to continue their effort in ensuring that discipline and responsibility are cornerstones in our nuclear weapon programs. I’m confident Congress will continue to strengthen its oversight responsibilities and work together with the Service to mitigate the possibility of future discrepancies.”
Rep. John McHugh (R-NY), Ranking Republican of the Military Personnel Subcommittee:
“The situation that has unfolded regarding the Air Force's handling of nuclear materials is extremely troubling. It is clear that mistakes of a large magnitude were made, and it is appropriate that individuals be held accountable for these mistakes - regardless of rank. That being said, I commend the Air Force for undertaking their ongoing comprehensive review of what happened as well as their announcement of disciplinary action today. I urge the Air Force to remain in close communication with Congress as they implement new reforms and I caution all of the services to ensure that their handling of nuclear materials is above reproach.”
Rep. Terry Everett (R-AL), Ranking Republican on the Strategic Forces Subcommittee:
“There is no more critical responsibility than the protection of our nuclear arsenal, so I commend the Air Force for taking appropriate action following Admiral Donald’s investigative report regarding unacceptable deficiencies with the safeguards for our nuclear weapons. The patriotism and dedication of these general officers should not be questioned, but this disciplinary action is necessary and will clearly reset the importance of following proper procedures for safeguarding our nuclear capabilities across each of the military services.”
Rep. J. Randy Forbes (R-VA), Ranking Republican of the Readiness Subcommittee:
"Today, the Air Force took tough disciplinary action in response to Admiral Donald's investigation. I am grateful for the service and sacrifice of these men and women to our nation, and I also commend the Air Force for demonstrating its commitment to safeguarding our nuclear arsenal by holding accountable those who were in charge during these missteps."
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