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Nuclear weapons safety: The case of trident

Journal Article · · Science and Global Security; (United States)
An accidental detonation or ignition of propellant in a Trident missile, or of explosive material in one of the warheads, could lead to dispersal of toxic plutonium into a populated area. The authors examine the details of Trident nuclear weapons safety and assess the feasibility, cost and consequences of safety-enhancing modifications to the missiles and warheads. They find that the operational impacts of such modifications would be minor, especially if the number of warheads per missile is decreased as a result of START II. Several billion dollars, and a small number of nuclear tests, would be needed to enhance safety for Trident.
OSTI ID:
6830587
Journal Information:
Science and Global Security; (United States), Journal Name: Science and Global Security; (United States) Vol. 4:3; ISSN 0892-9882; ISSN SGSEE8
Country of Publication:
United States
Language:
English

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