Central ND News

Senator John Hoeven and General James Slife, Air Force Vice Chief of Staff, visited Minot Air Force Base to assess the modernization of its dual-nuclear mission. Their visit included a tour of the base's facilities and discussions with local and military leaders about accelerating the development of the Sentinel program. They also focused on constructing facilities at all three missile bases concurrently to maintain schedules and reduce costs.

Investments in upgrades to Minot's Weapons Storage Area and mission planning facilities were highlighted as crucial for operating the new Long Range Standoff (LRSO) cruise missile, expected in the early 2030s. Senator Hoeven emphasized, "Minot Air Force Base is the only dual nuclear base in the nation," underlining the significance of these projects for national security.

Hoeven stated that efforts are being made to ensure Minot can operate the next nuclear cruise missile once fully developed. He added that concurrent infrastructure development at Minot and other missile bases would help reduce costs for this vital defense asset.

As part of his role on the Senate Defense Appropriations Committee, Hoeven has been working on several initiatives. These include accelerating the deployment schedule for the Sentinel by identifying cost savings to address increased construction expenses and advocating for concurrent facility construction with Department of Defense officials and Northrop Grumman.

Hoeven has also secured a commitment from the Air Force to budget for facilities needed for the LRSO carried on B-52 aircraft. He authored a provision in the Fiscal Year 2025 Military Construction bill to ensure Minot is equipped to operate and maintain this new missile once it enters service.