Managing NATO's nuclear dilemma

Journal Article · · Int. Secur.; (United States)

DOI:https://doi.org/10.2307/2626733· OSTI ID:6066970

Treverton, G F

The difference between American and European interests is at the heart of the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) dilemma over the deployment of battlefield nuclear weapons in Europe. There is no solution to the dilemma, but it can be managed with a better definition of the role of NATO's theater nuclear forces (TNF) and with more attention to how decisions are made. Less reliance on short-range systems with little military value, a better explanation of decisions and reassurances to the public, and anticipating future nuclear issues will help to manage nuclear politics. Arms control negotiations need to be flexible enough to allow Europeans to assume responsibilities commensurate with their stakes by drawing them into the decision-making process. Nuclear management must first deal with the particular dilemma of West Germany and must recognize that political confidence is as important to US-European arrangements as weapons. 23 references. (DCK)

• Research Organization: Harvard Univ., Cambridge, MA
• OSTI ID: 6066970
• Journal Information: Int. Secur.; (United States), Journal Name: Int. Secur.; (United States) Vol. 7:4; ISSN INTSD
• Country of Publication: United States
• Language: English

Related Subjects

29 ENERGY PLANNING, POLICY, AND ECONOMY
290600* -- Energy Planning & Policy-- Nuclear Energy
293000 -- Energy Planning & Policy-- Policy
Legislation
& Regulation
DECISION MAKING
INSTITUTIONAL FACTORS
INTERNATIONAL ORGANIZATIONS
INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS
MANAGEMENT
NATO
NUCLEAR WEAPONS
POLITICAL ASPECTS
WEAPONS