Malmstrom To Keep ICBM Silos Operational

Senators Jon Tester and John Walsh today praised the Defense Department’s decision to keep the nation’s 454 ICBM silos operational, securing Malmstrom Air Force Base’s critical role in protecting the nation’s security.

“Today’s announcement is a big win for our nation’s security and for Malmstrom Air Force Base and north-central Montana,” said Tester, co-chairman of the Senate ICBM Coalition.  “ICBMs are the most cost-effective nuclear deterrent, and keeping silos warm is a smart decision and the kind of common-sense Montanans expect from their leaders.”

“Today’s news is welcome, but the fight is not over, and I will be on the frontline to make sure Malmstrom continues to play an important role in our nation’s defense,” Walsh said.  “ICBMs continue to be the most cost-effective part of our nuclear defenses and at a time of instability in eastern Europe, it is critical that the ICBM mission remains strong.”

Keeping silos on warm status ensures that they remain under the watch of Malmstrom’s security and maintenance personnel.