Department of Energy: An Organizational Look at Americas Nuclear Deterrent

Abstract

The primary motivation for this research is to ensure that the nuclear enterprise remains safe, secure, and effective for many years to come. A safe, secure, and effective nuclear force not only serves as a credible deterrent against U.S. adversaries, but also provides assurance for its allies. A history of failures in safety and security within DOE, however, called into question the credibility of the U.S. nuclear deterrent and DOEs ability to accomplish the mission. Similarly, the current uncertain and changing strategic security environment, shrinking budgets, and aging nuclear force structure and nuclear production complex, raise questions as to the long-term effectiveness and credibility of the U.S. nuclear deterrent. A literature review and case study interviews with mid-level managers provide valuable insight into DOE organizational cultural challenges. The results from the literature review and interviews were analyzed and presented. This research highlights that while DOEs culture is improving, opportunities exist for meaningful cultural change. Capitalizing on these opportunities provides for the long-term effectiveness and credibility of Americas nuclear deterrent.

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Document Details

Document Type
Technical Report
Publication Date
Sep 01, 2016
Accession Number
AD1017994

Entities

People

  • David O. Pabst

Tags

Communities of Interest

  • Energy and Power Technologies
  • Engineered Resilient Systems
  • Human Systems
  • Weapons Technologies

DTIC Thesaurus Topics

  • Air Force
  • Business Administration
  • Case Studies
  • Congress
  • Employment
  • Geography
  • Literature Surveys
  • Management Personnel
  • National Security
  • Nuclear Energy
  • Nuclear Materials
  • Organizational Structure
  • Personnel Management
  • Production
  • Students
  • Urban Areas
  • Warfare

Readers

  • Aerospace Engineering.
  • Defense Acquisition Program Management
  • Joint Military Operations and Doctrine.