US releases new nuclear strategy

The US has unveiled a new nuclear strategy, known as the Nuclear Posture Review. The policy restricts the country's use of nuclear weapons, But stops short of "no first use" assurance.

It also promises not to develop new nuclear warheads, nor to conduct nuclear testing.

The new strategy calls for reduced US reliance on its nuclear deterrent. Under the strategy, the US will not use or threaten to use the weapons against non-nuclear weapon states.

Robert Gates, US Defense Secretary, said, "This NPR determined that the United States will not develop new nuclear warheads. Programs to extend the life of warheads will only use nuclear components based on previously tested designs and will not support new military missions or provide for new military capability."

U.S. Defense Secretary Robert Gates and Secretary of State Hillary Rodham Clinton brief reporters about the Nuclear Posture Review Report at the Pentagon, Tuesday, April 6, 2010. (AP Photo/Charles Dharapak)