The Future Role and Need for Nuclear Weapons in the 21st Century
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Authors
Stearns-Boles, Sherry L.
Issue Date
2007
Type
Other
Language
en_US
Keywords
Alternative Title
Abstract
The 2001 Nuclear Posture Review (NPR) presented a unique strategy that included the concept of a new strategic triad encompassing offensive strike capabilities, defenses, and responsive infrastructure, all supported by robust command, control, computer, communications and intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance capabilities. The NPR provides a roadmap for a more integrative and flexible approach to our defensive posture. Conventional weapons technologies continue to advance and, as a result, place the US in an extremely advantageous position regarding nonnuclear strike capabilities. This concept of prompt global strike (PGS) influences the role of nuclear weapons significantly in that it presents a new outlook on the balance of nuclear and nonnuclear components of our national deterrent. Funding for US weapons programs, procurement/production, and sustainment of a nuclear mission show a significant downtrend. Nuclear weapons stockpile stewardship is the current process for managing our nuclear arsenal. This includes active surveillance of the US stockpile. We continue to operate and maintain nuclear weapons in a constantly changing, post-Cold War strategic and political environment. As movement continues into the 21st century, our stockpile continues to age. The Reliable Replacement Warhead (RRW) program promises to make stockpile management more affordable. Given the dynamic security environment of the world, RRW is the proper path forward for the 21st century. The value and role of nuclear weapons is not as clear as it once was because these events present issues and challenges that redefine the role of nuclear weapons. This paper discusses the US nuclear policy regarding our adversaries and how the US handles adversaries that have a different perspective, the new nuclear weapons states, and non-state actors with no return address who have nothing to lose.
Description
INSS Research Paper
Citation
Inst For National Security Studies Us Air Force Academy Co, and Sherry L. Stearns-Boles. 2007. “The Future Role and Need for Nuclear Weapons in the 21st Century.” DTIC, January. https://research-ebsco-com.usafa.idm.oclc.org/linkprocessor/plink?id=aacab6f6-22df-3c81-a7fd-000278a7ac12.
Publisher
DTIC