The Nuclear Triad. A Proposal for an Economy of Force.
Abstract
The problem faced by defense force structure planners in the next decade is to reconcile defense needs with the availability of defense dollars. The purpose of this proposal for an economy of force for strategic nuclear forces is to assist in this reconciliation. The scope of the problem was limited to the Nuclear TRIAD. Each component of the Nuclear TRIAD was examined as an alternative to the TRIAD. It was concluded that (1) the Nuclear TRIAD should be retained since no single component will meet the stated requirements for nuclear deterrence; (2) The overall force levels of the TRIAD are in excess of stated needs; and (3) The proposal for an economy of force will provide an adequate nuclear deterrent. It is recommended that the Ford Administration adopt the proposal to reduce the Nuclear TRIAD to a level of 250 ICBM's, 240 SLBM's and 200 Bombers.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Sep 15, 1975
- Accession Number
- ADA019393
Entities
People
- Donald G. Bludworth
Organizations
- United States Army War College