Utah is essential in the new era of national security: And companies like Boeing, Northrop Grumman, and L3Harris are leading the way.

• Author: Miller, Derek
• Position: WORLDVIEW

FOR MORE THAN A CENTURY, Utah's aerospace and defense industry has been vital to protecting our country. Home to companies like Boeing, Northrop Grumman, and L3Harris, the state has led the way in developing innovative technologies from avionics and aircraft design to composites and ballistic missile manufacturing. These companies have also created jobs and contracts that fuel our economy. As global uncertainty abounds, continued investment and modernization in Utah will be critical to ensuring our national security and long-term economic prosperity.

Earlier this year, the Biden administration released its 2023 budget proposal, its National Defense Strategy, and a preview of the 2022 Nuclear Posture Review (NPR), a public policy document mandated by Congress that establishes US nuclear policy. Each of these documents signaled the Biden administration's commitment to modernizing our nation's nuclear forces.

The administration's strong support for nuclear modernization guarantees that Utah's Hill Air Force Base will play a key role in replacing our nation's existing Minuteman III intercontinental ballistic missiles (ICBMs) with the next generation of a technologically-advanced ground-based strategic deterrent. The Air Force named the new system Sentinel and claims it's not just "a new missile but a fully integrated launch, flight, and infrastructure system with modern command and control features."

This is a big deal. Producing a brand-new fleet of 400 ICBMs will bring thousands of jobs to the state and could draw further manufacturing opportunities around the greater Ogden area. It also builds upon Utah's rich history as a pioneer in nuclear deterrence and safety.

This strategic investment is long overdue, given that our existing Minuteman III fleet has been in operation since the 1970s--decades past its intended lifespan. It's been estimated that by the end of this decade, the US will no longer be able to operate a significant portion of the ICBM fleet, and by 2036, the fleet will no longer be able to be sustained. The Sentinel's ground-based strategic deterrence will ensure the US can maintain a credible...