A Modern Theory of Nuclear Deterrence: Understanding 21st Century US Nuclear Posture Requirements.

Abstract

This monograph explores modern ideas on nuclear deterrence by reviewing, assessing, and synthesizing the history of nuclear strategic thought. A historical review of deterrence reveals nuclear deterrence theory to be obscure. By synthesizing mainstream strategic logic, the author offers a concise, general theory of nuclear deterrence. This theory highlights adaptability as a defining requisite for the nuclear force posture. Nuclear force characteristics that serve adaptability include survivability, suitable range, ability to forward deploy, prompt response capability, variable payloads, assorted weapon yields, and high delivery accuracy. These characteristics are then used as an assessment framework for the present and planned US nuclear posture.

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Document Details

Document Type
Technical Report
Publication Date
Apr 12, 2018
Accession Number
AD1087267

Entities

People

  • Frederick M. Iii Haley

Organizations

  • School of Advanced Military Studies

Tags

Communities of Interest

  • Counter WMD
  • Energy and Power Technologies
  • Engineered Resilient Systems
  • Space
  • Weapons Technologies

DTIC Thesaurus Topics

  • Air Force
  • Air Force Facilities
  • Air Power
  • Arms Control
  • Ballistic Missiles
  • Cold War
  • Department Of Defense
  • Governments
  • International Security
  • National Security
  • Nuclear Bombs
  • Nuclear Weapons
  • Political Science
  • Psychology
  • Public Policy
  • United States
  • War Colleges

Readers

  • Irregular Warfare and Special Operations Cyberspace Operations against Adversarial Threats.
  • Nuclear Non-Proliferation and International Security
  • Theoretical Analysis.