US Strategic Command Visits Minot AFB: Nuclear Triad Demo

USSTRATCOM Leaders Inspect Minot AFB’s Dual Nuclear Capabilities

Minot Air force Base in north Dakota plays a uniquely critical role in maintaining America’s nuclear deterrence, a fact underscored by a recent visit from the commander and senior enlisted leader of U.S. Strategic Command (USSTRATCOM).On December 16, 2025, Navy adm. Rich Correll, commander of USSTRATCOM, and Army Command Sgt. Maj. JoAnn Naumann, the command’s senior enlisted leader, toured the base to assess the readiness and dedication of the Airmen stationed there.

Did you know?-minot AFB is the only U.S. base hosting both B-52H Stratofortress bombers and Minuteman III intercontinental ballistic missiles, representing two legs of the nuclear triad.

A Unique Strategic Asset

Minot Air Force Base stands apart as the sole Department of Defense installation hosting two legs of the nation’s nuclear triad – the strategic bomber and intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM) forces. This dual capability is provided by the 5th Bomb Wing (5BW) and the 91st Missile Wing (91MW), making Minot AFB a cornerstone of U.S. nuclear readiness. The nuclear triad, comprised of land, sea, and air-based assets, ensures a diverse and resilient deterrent capability.

Pro tip:-regular maintenance is crucial for ICBM readiness. The 91st Missile Wing’s “rough Rider” Airmen perform rigorous checks on the Minuteman III missiles.

Assessing Readiness and Recognizing Excellence

During their visit, Correll and Naumann engaged with leadership and Airmen from both wings, gaining firsthand insight into the complex operations that underpin the base’s mission. They received briefings on the bomber alert mission and ongoing modernization efforts, as well as observed the rigorous maintenance procedures for the Minuteman III ICBMs conducted by the 91st Missile Wing’s “Rough Rider” Airmen.

“The focus and effort by the Airmen at Minot is absolutely impressive,” Correll stated, highlighting the dedication of the personnel stationed at the base.

Correll personally acknowledged the outstanding performance of the 5th Bomb Wing’s “Warbirds” after experiencing the capabilities of the B-52H Stratofortress firsthand. He emphasized the vital role these Airmen play in national security,stating,”Our strategic deterrence mission only happens because of you. The aircraft take flight because of you. The missiles are ready and credible, because of you. Thank you and your families for your service.”

Reader question:-What dose the “Bully Stick” tradition symbolize? It represents President Roosevelt’s beliefs of strong deterrence through a potent arsenal.

Tradition and resilience at Minot

The visit also included immersion in the 91st Missile Wing’s unique traditions, including the presentation of a traditional “Bully Stick” to Correll – a reference to President Theodore Roosevelt’s philosophy of “speak softly and carry a big stick,” symbolizing the potent deterrent force represented by the wing’s ICBM arsenal. Correll also participated in the 91MW’s “Bully!” battle cry tradition, further demonstrating his engagement with the unit’s culture.

Despite challenging weather conditions – unseasonably warm temperatures, strong winds, and lingering effects from a recent ice storm – Correll observed the unwavering resilience of Team Minot and their commitment to the base’s motto: “Only The best Come North.”

Naumann echoed this sentiment, stating, “It is an honor to witness Team Minot’s spirit and resilience that ensure this critical mission never stops.” The visit serv