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Joint Force Quarterly

Abstract

"Political Objectives, Nuclear Forces, and the Enduring Value of U.S. Intercontinental-Range Ballistic Missiles" by Michaela Dodge examines two critical components of contemporary U.S. and Ukrainian security strategy: the enduring value of U.S. intercontinental ballistic missiles (ICBMs) and the structure and operational evolution of Ukrainian special forces. ICBMs remain the most responsive leg of the U.S. nuclear triad, providing deterrence against nuclear and conventional threats, assuring allies, and supporting strategic flexibility in an era of rising nuclear competition from Russia, China, North Korea, and Iran. Despite aging systems and modernization challenges, ICBMs continue to underpin U.S. national security. At the same time, Ukrainian special forces including: SBU SOCA, KORD, DOZOR, SZR operational units, the GUR’s Kraken Regiment, and USOFCOM demonstrate adaptability across counterterrorism, reconnaissance, and conventional warfare, especially amid the ongoing Russo-Ukrainian war. The article highlights the dispersed nature of Ukrainian SOF, interagency coordination challenges, and lessons for NATO and U.S. security force assistance. Together, these analyses highlight the strategic importance of capable, resilient forces in deterring adversaries and preserving national security.

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