Task Force 21 hosts Nuclear Triad Symposium in Minot Published May 11, 2026 By Airman 1st Class Wesley Davies 5th Bomb Wing Public Affairs MINOT AIR FORCE BASE, N.D. -- Minot community leaders hosted the North Dakota Nuclear Triad Symposium in Minot, April 28 to discuss the importance of America’s nuclear deterrence. The symposium brought together military leaders, elected officials and community partners for a day of discussion on the future of nuclear deterrence and the vital role Minot AFB plays in the nation’s strategic defense. The event focused on the current state of nuclear deterrence and ongoing modernization efforts across the nuclear enterprise, including updates on the new Sentinel intercontinental ballistic missile program as well as B-52H to B-52J Stratofortress modernization efforts. Speakers emphasized the importance of maintaining a safe, secure and effective nuclear deterrent while simultaneously preparing for the future. In his keynote address, U.S. Air Force Gen. S.L. Davis, commander of Air Force Global Strike Command, highlighted the Sentinel, B-52J and MH-139 Gray Wolf helicopter modernization programs; each aims to bolster the importance of Minot AFB well into the future. The general expressed gratitude for the advocacy of those in the room for helping to keep those programs on track. “The fact that the nuclear triad and the associated support systems fared so well in this budget is really a testament to the hard work of Task Force 21 and the team here,” Davis said. “As our nation’s only dual bomber and missile base, Minot’s mission is critical. Day in and day out, Team Minot and this community stand shoulder-to-shoulder to deliver on the most important mission in the Department.” U.S. Air Force Col. Jesse Lamarand, 5th Bomb Wing commander, said, “The Airmen at Minot AFB serve with a sense of purpose and regularly practice and exercise so they are always prepared when needed.” In addition to purpose and preparation, Lamarand also emphasized the continued need to pursue enhanced opportunities to increase production from the industry leaders in the room in support of Airmen’s mission success. Also in attendance from Minot AFB was Air Force Col. Jimmy Schlabach, 91st Missile Wing commander, who emphasized the necessary capabilities the new Sentinel program will bring to the missileers. “Think of the Minuteman III missile system as a flip phone. It still works great, but the Sentinel is the smartphone version of the ICBM that is necessary to keep our capabilities modern and sustainable into the future,” he said. Schlabach went on to express his gratitude to the symposium audience. “Minot Air Force Base is not Minot Air Force Base without the town of Minot. The way in which this community welcomes our service members makes us feel treated, not as friends, but as family. I’m so grateful to be a part of this Minot family.” North Dakota Governor Kelly Armstrong was also in attendance and spoke on the state’s strong connection to the nuclear mission and the enduring partnership between local communities and Minot AFB. Armstrong’s remarks reinforced the significance of Team Minot’s contribution to national security and the continued support of North Dakotans for the Air Force mission. Several distinguished visitors also attended and spoke at the symposium, including recorded remarks from U.S. Senators John Hoeven and Kevin Cramer, as well as Congresswoman Julie Fedorchak. Their messages reinforced the importance of Minot AFB’s dual nuclear mission and also praised the Airmen who execute it every day. The symposium provided an opportunity for leaders and community members to engage in meaningful dialogue about deterrence amidst the current global threat environment, modernization and the future of the nuclear triad, while reinforcing Minot’s critical role in securing the nation.