What is tactical nuclear weapons?

They are shorter-range nuclear weapons intended for use on the battlefield, unlike long-range strategic weapons that served for global deterrence.

Who is leading the development of the new US nuclear strategy?

The doctrinal review is being led by Elbridge Colby, the head of policy at the US Department of Defense.

Why is the US changing its nuclear doctrine?

Due to the growing threats of a simultaneous conflict with Russia and China, including pressures on Taiwan and the deployment of Russian nuclear weapons in Belarus.

Where has Russia deployed its tactical nuclear weapons?

Russia has deployed part of its tactical nuclear weapons and the Oreshnik missile system on the territory of Belarus.

World

US Shifts Nuclear Doctrine: Introducing Tactical Weapons

B.D. · Prije 2h | 3 min

The Pentagon, under Elbridge Colby, is preparing a new strategy that relies on shorter-range nuclear weapons amid rising tensions over Taiwan and Belarus.

Summary

The Pentagon is preparing a new nuclear strategy for a potential war with Russia and China.
The new doctrine emphasizes the use of shorter-range tactical nuclear weapons.
Taiwan launched its annual military exercises on August 5, 2026, amid pressure from Beijing.
Russia has deployed tactical nuclear weapons and the Oreshnik missile system in Belarus.

The Pentagon is currently actively developing a new US nuclear strategy designed to prepare the country for a potential war against two major powers, Russia and China. According to an NBC News report from August 6, 2026, Elbridge Colby, the head of policy at the US Department of Defense, is leading this doctrinal review. The document being prepared significantly departs from the US nuclear doctrine that has been in place for decades.

According to five sources familiar with the plans, the new document specifically highlights the potential use of shorter-range tactical nuclear weapons in the event of a regional conflict with China or Russia. These weapons are intended for the battlefield, unlike the traditional long-range strategic arsenal that has been the cornerstone of deterrence during the Cold War for decades.

Dual Threat and Fear of Escalation

The main goal of the new strategy would be to prevent the escalation of conflict and to prevent China or Russia from exploiting a moment when US attention is focused on the other side. US strategists are particularly concerned about a possible Chinese invasion of Taiwan. Beijing considers the island part of its territory, while Taipei continues to strengthen its defensive capabilities.

On Wednesday, August 5, 2026, Taiwan launched its annual military exercises. Their goal is to test the military's ability to conduct defensive operations around the clock. Part of the maneuvers also includes preparing civilians for potential internet outages and other disruptions.

Russian Nuclear Umbrella over Belarus

At the same time, concerns about nuclear escalation remain high on the eastern flank as well. In 2024, Russia amended its nuclear policy and officially extended nuclear protection to Belarus. In May 2026, Belarusian leader Alexander Lukashenko stated that he had approved the deployment of part of Russia's tactical nuclear weapons on Belarusian soil.

In December of last year, 2025, Moscow announced that the Oreshnik missile system, capable of carrying nuclear warheads, had also been deployed in Belarus. Russian President Vladimir Putin emphasized that Moscow retains control over the nuclear stockpile in Belarus, but could allow the ally to select targets in the event of war, as reported by Express.

All these factors, increased Chinese pressure on Taiwan, Russian nuclear deployment in Belarus, and the ever-closer cooperation between Moscow and Beijing, appear to have prompted Washington to conduct a deep review of its nuclear strategy. The new strategy, focusing on shorter-range tactical weapons, is intended to provide America with a more adaptable response in regional conflicts while avoiding a devastating escalation into a global nuclear war.