Nuclear Myanmar; Same Book, Different Cover
Abstract
The United States must assume that Myanmar's military still intends to develop a nuclear weapon and, as a result, will further destabilize the region. The US must make this assumption despite Myanmar's recent progress toward becoming a democracy and their civilian leadership signing of Additional Protocols with the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) in September 2013. The author makes three arguments to corroborate this thesis. First, Myanmar's military is still largely in control of the country and their recent statements regarding a nuclear program contradict their civilian leadership position. Second, Myanmars military actions concerning developing a nuclear weapon capability have continued undeterred despite the nations quasi-democratic transition. The final reason is Myanmar's lack of nonproliferation progress since signing the Additional Protocols last September indicates that the military does not intend to allow IAEA inspectors access to their clandestine military research sites. The author concludes with recommendations for the United States government and military leaders to compel the Myanmar government and military to cease any nuclear weapon program and allow IAEA inspectors access to suspect Myanmar military facilities.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Oct 30, 2014
- Accession Number
- AD1045352
Entities
People
- Dennis S. Sullivan
Organizations
- Naval War College