WASHINGTON (AP) — The Air Force is reconsidering some old proposals as it searches for cures to the woes of its nuclear missile corps.

Many of these steps fell short when they were tried five years ago. The new effort is more far-reaching, on a tighter timetable and backed by Defense Secretary Chuck Hagel.

The steps are detailed in internal emails and documents obtained by The Associated Press.

A variety of embarrassing setbacks and missteps have raised questions about whether some of the world's most fearsome weapons are being properly managed.

Possible approaches to correcting the problems involve bonus pay and other incentives for the men and women who operate, maintain and secure an Air Force fleet of 450 Minuteman 3 nuclear-tipped missiles.

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