FDD's Foreign Podicy Bombers and Ballistic Missiles with Gen. Bussiere
May 2, 2025
Join Thomas Bussiere, Commander of U.S. Air Force Global Strike Command, and Lydia LeFevre, research fellow at FDD's CMPP, as they discuss the breathtaking nuclear modernization of China and Russia. They uncover how China's expanding nuclear arsenal could target the U.S. by 2030 and detail the urgent need for the U.S. to bolster its deterrent strategies. The conversation also highlights the role of advanced bombers like the B-21 Raider and the importance of strengthening alliances in the face of rising ballistic threats from adversaries like North Korea and Iran.
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General Bussiere's Early Motivation
- General Thomas Bussiere was inspired to join the Air Force because of his father's service in the Korean conflict.
- He intended to fly and attended Norwich University, staying in the Air Force for over 40 years due to his passion for flying.
Diverse Flying Career Explained
- General Bussiere flew both fighters and bombers, including the T-38, F-15, F-22, B-1, and B-2 as part of his diverse career.
- He embraced new challenges and seized opportunities offered by the Air Force to expand his flight experience.
Evaluate Strike Force Mix
- The U.S. should assess if it has the right mix of short and long-range strike platforms based on threats and partner capabilities.
- The U.S. is unique in having bombers; allies contribute fighters, highlighting a need to evaluate the force composition.