Last mentioned: Feb 19, 2026
Revised IOC Window
Target window for the Sentinel to reach initial operational capability.
Restructuring Deadline
Expected completion of new acquisition strategy and new Milestone B decision.
Certification of Necessity
Pentagon decides Sentinel is too critical to cancel but orders program restructuring.
Nunn-McCurdy Breach
Pentagon declares critical cost overrun process after budget exceeds 25% of baseline.
Milestone B Approval
Program authorized to move into engineering and manufacturing development phase.
The U.S. Air Force has officially delayed the initial operational capability of the Northrop Grumman-led LGM-35A Sentinel nuclear missile program to the early 2030s. Following a massive cost overrun that saw the budget balloon from $77.7 billion to $160 billion, the Pentagon is forcing a complete restructuring of the acquisition strategy.