A recent study titled “Masters of the Air: Strategic Stability and Conventional Strikes,” by Dan Plesch and Manuel Galileo, claims that the United States (US) and its allies possess the capability to destroy all Russian and Chinese nuclear launch sites within two hours using non-nuclear, conventional weapons. The report highlights the significant edge the US holds in weaponry and strike capacity, which may contribute to growing fears and an arms race among nuclear powers, potentially destabilizing global security.
The study examines whether the US and its allies might eliminate China’s and Russia’s strategic nuclear arsenal with cutting-edge missile defense systems and aircraft in the event of a non-nuclear preemptive strike. The US-Russian Strategic Arms Reduction Treaty (START) is set to expire in2025, and this research highlights how urgent it is to have talks about nuclear disarmament.
The US proposal to station long-range missiles in Germany by 2026 is highlighted in particular since it would put multiple Russian intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM) launch sites within striking distance. The report also covers the US’s superior stealth capabilities and how its ballistic and cruise missiles, as well as the defense systems of Aegis, Patriot, and THAAD, may neutralize Russian and Chinese intercontinental ballistic missiles.
The strategic bombers of China and Russia are compared; the Russian TU-95MS “Bear” bombers are found to be slow and vulnerable, while China’s bombers are unable to strike far-off targets due to their restricted range. The study’s conclusion highlights the significance of international arms control and disarmament efforts by stating that the existing power disparity could result in catastrophic miscalculations during a conflict. As part of worldwide security measures, it also urges more research into cutting-edge technology including cyberwarfare, artificial intelligence, and hypersonic missiles.
This study, which is a component of a bigger initiative headed by Professor Plesch at SOAS University of London, emphasizes the urgent need for fresh disarmament discussions as stated by the UN Secretary-General.