New START Treaty Enters Into Force

The New Strategic Arms Reduction Treaty between the U.S. and Russia entered into force on February 5, 2011 with the exchange of instruments of ratification by the parties.  The treaty creates the following limits on weapons: 

Deployed Strategic Nuclear Warheads: 1,550

Deployed and Non-Deployed Strategic Launchers and Heavy Bombers: 800

Deployed Strategic Launchers and Heavy Bombers: 700

According to the U.S. State Department, an exchange of treaty-required notifications now begins. Within 45 days, the Parties must exchange databases including information on numbers, locations, and technical characteristics of weapons systems and facilities that are subject to the Treaty. The Parties have the right to conduct on-site inspections beginning 60 days after the Treaty’s entry into force.

(cgb)