Developing a Process for Determining the Optimal Nuclear Weapons Posture
Abstract
This research analysis investigates the DoD process for calculating the number of deployed nuclear weapons in the Triad essential to provide deterrence for the U.S. The deployed nuclear weapons are those weapons with in the Triad which are either on strategic alert as on the ICBMs, SLBMs, and ALCMs and bombs used by the bombers. This research explores the ability for the U.S. to continue to provide deterrence for North Atlantic Treaty Organization allies. The U.S. has been the world leader in nuclear disarmament and non-proliferation of nuclear information and weapons systems. In the U.S. race to significantly lower the number of worldwide nuclear weapons a focus must remain on ensuring that the U.S. maintains a number of deployed nuclear weapons to ensure it can deter adversaries such as Russia, who continues to test the limits of NATO. Specifically, this research will focus on the concepts utilized by the DoD in the development of the U.S. weapons posture. This research will conduct interviews with Defense leaders and senior officers in the AF and recommends a method to support the U.S. posture of deployed nuclear weapons.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jun 15, 2017
- Accession Number
- AD1055441
Entities
People
- Raymundo Jr M Vann
Organizations
- Air Force Institute of Technology