In the end, the quality of each tool in this toolbox of capabilities is judged by the unique contributions it can make. While strategic bombers may have advantages in terms of raw payload, ballistic missiles continue to be capable of delivering a sizeable payload globally – in about 30–45 minutes. Ballistic missiles provide a unique mix of promptness and direct control, which allows the commander to tailor his attack for maximum strategic impact. Moreover, the commander can do so with forces based 10,000km from the theater of operation; a fact that may be crucial in regions where the United States may not have a presence in being or in which an adversary has made significant investments in area denial capabilities.

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Miller, Eric A. "Global Strike Capabilities: The Ballistic Missile Option." Astropolitics. Vol. 2 (2004): 1-31. [ 5 quotes ] [ page 24 ]