Modernised B61‑12 nuclear bombs bolster NATO deterrence strategy
The United States Department of Energy's National Nuclear Security Administration (NNSA) has completed the modernization of B61-12 nuclear bombs. The measures taken were aimed at extending their service life. These bombs have replaced the previously used variants, namely B61-3, B61-4, B61-7, and B61-10, and will be deployed to both American and NATO bases in Europe.
B61 bombs, which have been part of the American nuclear arsenal since 1968, are considered among the oldest and most versatile weapons in this collection. The latest variant, B61-12, which replaces the B61-3, B61-4, B61-7, and B61-10, combines features of all its predecessors but boasts greater accuracy and a lower-yield warhead with a yield range of about 0.3 to 50 kilotons.
B61-12 - American nuclear bombs after modernization
The B61-12 is equipped with a Tail Kit Assembly guidance system, allowing for precise targeting. This innovation has reduced explosive power while maintaining the effectiveness of previous variants. Additionally, the bomb has a dial-a-yield capability, ranging from approximately 0.3 kilotons to a maximum of 50 kilotons. This makes it more versatile and easily adaptable to selected combat scenarios.
The B61-12 uses the same fissile material sourced from older bombs, but it features a new casing. These updates have allowed the United States to extend the lifespan of these bombs by about 20 years. Notably, introducing the new variant does not signify an increase in the US nuclear arsenal, as the weapon has been modernized, not manufactured anew. The official number of B61-12 bombs in service remains classified. However, unofficial estimates suggest about 400 to 500 units.
Deployment of B61-12 in Europe
According to Bulgarian Military, citing NNSA chief Jill Gruby, the new bomb variant will be deployed to American Air Force bases and NATO bases in Europe. Up to now, around 100 to 150 B61 bombs in older variants, primarily B61-3 and B61-4, have been deployed in this region across six bases: Kleine Brogel in Belgium, Büchel in Germany, Aviano and Ghedi in Italy, Volkel in the Netherlands, and Incirlik in Turkey. These are the locations set to receive the B61-12.
During a speech at the Hudson Institute on January 16, Jill Gruby highlighted NATO's strength, announcing the full deployment of the new B61-12 gravity bombs. She also emphasized efforts to enhance NATO's visibility regarding its nuclear capabilities through facility visits and regular engagements.
Hans Kristensen, director of the Nuclear Information Project at the Federation of American Scientists, interpreted Jill Gruby's remarks as a near-official confirmation that the deployment of B61-12 nuclear bombs in Europe has commenced, according to a report by EuroAsianTimes.
The modernised B61-12 bombs have become a part of the US and NATO's deterrence strategy, assuming that the presence of nuclear weapons in Europe will discourage potential adversaries, such as Russia, from engaging in aggression against allies. Furthermore, the B61-12 is compatible with being carried by modern aircraft, including fifth-generation F-35 fighters (as well as F-15E, F-16, and Tornado), which are gradually becoming standard in the air forces of many NATO countries. In practice, deploying B61-12 in Europe facilitates cooperation among NATO members within the joint nuclear deterrence policy and potential responses to aggression from hostile nations.
