Physics and technology of the arms race

Conference · Fri Dec 31 23:00:00 EST 1982 · AIP Conf. Proc.; (United States)

OSTI ID:6061236

Garwin, R L

Traditional military concepts of superiority and effectiveness (as embodied in Lanchester's law) have little relevance to thermonuclear weapons, with their enormous effectiveness in destruction of society. Few are needed to saturate their deterrent effect, but their military effectiveness is limited. The evolution and future of strategic nuclear forces is discussed, and their declining marginal utility emphasized. Some calculations relevant to the nuclear confrontation are presented (Lanchester's Law; skin effect of VLF and ELF signals to submarines; the rocket equation; simple radar-range equation) and recommendations presented for future strategic forces and arms control initiatives. Recommended programs include a silo-based 12-ton single-warhead missile (SICM), the development of buried-bomb defense of individual Minuteman silos, the completion of the deployment of air-launched cruise missiles on the B-52 fleet, and the development of small (1000-ton) submarines for basing ICBM-range missiles.

• Research Organization: IBM Thomas J. Watson Research Center, Yorktown Hts., NY
• OSTI ID: 6061236
• Report Number(s): CONF-830463-
• Journal Information: AIP Conf. Proc.; (United States), Journal Name: AIP Conf. Proc.; (United States) Vol. 104; ISSN APCPC
• Country of Publication: United States
• Language: English

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