U.S. Strategic Command opens exercise Global Thunder 26

U.S. Strategic Command opened its annual nuclear command and control exercise, Global Thunder 26, here Oct. 21, 2025.

Global Thunder 26 engages warfighters across the nuclear enterprise, including USSTRATCOM components and subordinate units. Its purpose is to support peace through strength and national security objectives by enhancing combat readiness, assuring worldwide allies and partners, and demonstrating the Command’s warfighting capacity and lethal capabilities.

As with past exercises, Global Thunder 26 will see increased bomber and other aircraft flights. USSTRATCOM installations may experience longer wait times at the gates, and the exercise may affect other base support functions.  

This is an annual exercise, not held in response to world events or actions by any nation or entity.

USSTRATCOM deters strategic attack through a safe, secure, effective, and credible global combat capability and, when directed, is ready to prevail in conflict.

Learn more about USSTRATCOM:

     United States Strategic Command: Peace is our Profession... (YouTube.com)

     About (stratcom.mil)

     Mission, Vision & Intent (stratcom.mil)

For more information, contact the USSTRATCOM Public Affairs Office at (402) 912-0020 or usstratcompa@mail.mil, or visit www.stratcom.mil