Operational nuclear deterrence. Final report

Technical Report · Thu Dec 31 23:00:00 EST 1992

OSTI ID:6355283

Bedey, D F

During the Cold War the superpower rivalry between the United States and the Soviet Union produced nuclear strategy based upon a now familiar concept, strategic nuclear deterrence. As we adjust to a remarkably different global security environment, one characteristic of which is the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction, a natural question arises: can deterrence play a part in nuclear strategies focused on regional foes possessing small nuclear arsenals. The paper examines the viability of 'operational' nuclear deterrence employed in the resolution of regional conflicts. The object of operational nuclear deterrence is to persuade an adversary not to use nuclear weapons. To be effective, a deterrent strategy must be credible; the enemy must perceive that we possess the means, will, and commitment to severely retaliate.... Nuclear deterrence, Regional conflict, Strategic deterrence, Operational deterrence.

• Research Organization: Naval War Coll., Newport, RI (United States)
• OSTI ID: 6355283
• Report Number(s): AD-A-263956/5/XAB
• Country of Publication: United States
• Language: English

Related Subjects

350100* -- Arms Control-- Policy
Negotiations
& Legislation-- (1987-)
98 NUCLEAR DISARMAMENT, SAFEGUARDS, AND PHYSICAL PROTECTION
ARMS CONTROL
ASIA
DEVELOPED COUNTRIES
ENERGY
ENVIRONMENT
EUROPE
MILITARY STRATEGY
NORTH AMERICA
NUCLEAR DETERRENCE
NUCLEAR ENERGY
NUCLEAR WEAPONS
PROLIFERATION
REGIONAL ANALYSIS
RESOLUTION
SECURITY
USA
USSR
VIABILITY
WEAPONS