“Did we even go on alert? Did we even detect it?”
1) We have ICBMs, SLBMs and Bombers on alert at all times
2) The 5 Defense Support Program satellite in orbit should be able to detect a missile launch anywhere on the planet. I would hope they detected this one.
Our bomber force was taken off alert in '93 (or thereabouts)
It's time for a data update. All that is left of the mighty nuclear triad is a reduced SLBM force, 3 flights of ancient, nerfed Minuteman IIIs (single warheads), tactical airdropped munitions and Tomahawk missiles.
Peacekeeper ICBM = gone.
Strategic airdropped munitions = nearly gone. The last delivery system for the retained SMs is the no-longer-invincible B2, of which we have only 21 units.
ALCM = retiring now, nuclear ones may already be gone.
SRAM = gone.
ALCM and SRAM replacements = cancelled.
Nuclear artillery, etc. = gone. Army has no nukes.
Until the flying unicorns are available, we are vulnerable!!!