United States Nuclear Deterrence Policy: Past, Present, and Future
Abstract
This study focuses on the misconception between how the U.S. and Russia views their nuclear weapons and their use. During the transition of Presidents in the U.S., new nuclear policy is developed and implemented as the new administration responds to conflict and controversy. The U.S. views nuclear weapons as only a deterrent to nuclear weapon use and to discourage nuclear proliferation. The U.S. has reduced the role of nuclear weapons in their security strategy and placed greater emphasis on conventional capability. Conversely, this increased conventional capability is a primary motivator for Russian nuclear modernization and the increased role in their security strategy. Russia views nuclear weapons as a way to achieve national objectives. Using a structured query of public source documents, evidence was shown that a disconnect may exist with the policy makers view of nuclear weapons use and how the public views nuclear weapons use. There was not sufficient evidence showing one country is spending more than the other on their nuclear programs.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jun 15, 2017
- Accession Number
- AD1055434
Entities
People
- Jeffrey M. Parrish
Organizations
- Air Force Institute of Technology