C3 gets a vote of confidence

Just about a year and a half ago, with the change of administration, my term as assistant secretary of defense for command, control, communications, and intelligence (C
³
I) ended. My interest in and concern for the readiness of C
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systems has remained high, as has the attention of the media. While in Washington, I often had to respond to questions concerning the effectiveness and survivability of our strategic C
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systems. My answer to these challenges was an affirmation of confidence in these systems and in their ability to fulfill their essential role as part of our strategic deterrent to nuclear war. In view of the continued concern expressed in the media, an update of arguments to support that confidence is in order.