Why nuclear testing is necessary: A nuclear weapon scientist's perspective

Technical Report · Thu Jan 01 00:00:00 EST 1987

OSTI ID:7068953

Cochran, S G

Nuclear testing is receiving much public attention recently because of the Soviet moratorium. From a nuclear weapon scientist's perspective, nuclear tests are essential to maintain the credibility of the US nuclear deterrent. Nuclear tests are necessary for modernization of weapon systems in a world of rapidly advancing technology and changing conditions; they are necessary for ensuring that weapons are safe from accidental detonation; and they are necessary for determining that weapons are reliable and will perform as designed. Whereas nonnuclear tests and computer simulations are valuable tools, there is no substitute for experimental data from nuclear tests. Nuclear testing is required to maintain the competence of weapon scientists and engineers, is the only way they can gain necessary experience, and verifies the adequacy of their judgments. Confidence in US nuclear forces now and in the future is based on the competence of weapon scientists and engineers. As long as the nuclear deterrent continues to be the major ingredient in US defense policy, a Comprehensive Test Ban is not in the US interest.

• Research Organization: Lawrence Livermore National Lab., CA (USA)
• DOE Contract Number: W-7405-ENG-48
• OSTI ID: 7068953
• Report Number(s): UCID-20878; ON: DE87006306
• Resource Relation: Other Information: Portions of this document are illegible in microfiche products. Original copy available until stock is exhausted
• Country of Publication: United States
• Language: English

Related Subjects

45 MILITARY TECHNOLOGY, WEAPONRY, AND NATIONAL DEFENSE
98 NUCLEAR DISARMAMENT, SAFEGUARDS, AND PHYSICAL PROTECTION
NUCLEAR WEAPONS
TESTING
PERFORMANCE
RELIABILITY
SAFETY
VULNERABILITY
WEAPONS
450202* - Explosions & Explosives- Nuclear- Weaponry- (-1989)
350101 - Arms Control- Policy
Negotiations
& Legislation- Treaties- (1987-)