Lt. Gen. Michael Lutton will be the keynote speaker at a nuclear triad symposium to be held in Minot on Tuesday, April 23. Lutton is deputy commander of Air Force Global Strike Command and deputy commander of Air Forces Strategic-Air, U.S. Strategic Command, at Barksdale Air Force Base, Louisiana.

The symposium, hosted by Task Force 21 of the Minot Area Chamber EDC, will focus on sustaining credible nuclear deterrence amid growing challenges. Speakers will cover modernization, including the Sentinel and B-52 projects, the state of nuclear deterrence and adversaries.

Lutton, a career space and missile officer, was commander of the 91st Missile Wing at Minot Air Force Base from June 2014-2016. His career includes serving as commander of Twentieth Air Force at Barksdale AFB.

Sen. John Hoeven, R-ND, and Congressman Kelly Armstong, R-ND, are also scheduled to speak. The National Defense Industrial Association Northern Tier Chapter is an event partner, bringing in experts on Russia and China. In addition, an update on the Sentinel weapon system to replace the Minuteman III intercontinental ballistic missile system (ICBMs) and the final report of the Congressional Commission on the Strategic Posture of the United States are planned for the event.

“We know that Minot Air Force Base serves an important role as the bedrock of nuclear deterrence by being the only base with two legs of the nuclear triad (B-52 bombers and ICBMs),” Brekka Kramer, Minot Area Chamber EDC president/CEO said. “Together, it is imperative that we continuously educate and build understanding and advocacy around the importance of nuclear deterrence and what Minot Air Force Base does for our nation, allies and partners. It is critical that leaders understand the role we play, the threats that face our nation and the importance of modernization.”

The half-day symposium will start with continental breakfast at about 7 a.m. at the Clarion Event Center. There is no cost to attend the in-person symposium, and registration is now open. More information is available by contacting the Minot Area Chamber EDC.

Task Force 21 will host another nuclear triad symposium on Sept. 20 in Washington, D.C.

Task Force 21 group educates the local community, North Dakota officials, members of Congress and the public on national security issues, particularly ones that affect Minot Air Force Base, U.S. Air Force and U.S. nuclear deterrent.