The Role of Nuclear Artillery in the Defense of Western Europe: A Survey of Theater Nuclear Force Posture and Employment Doctrine.
Abstract
This research project surveys the current theater nuclear force (TNF) posture and the weapons employment doctrine in the context of the doctrine of constrained-use. It examines the role of the TNF in deterrence and presents a critical appraisal of the adequacy of existing nuclear weapons employment doctrine and request/release procedures in a first-use or follow-on use of the TNF. Finally, it appraises the adequacy of the current TNF posture to deter aggression and to support the doctrine of constrained-use. The survey concludes (1) that the maintenance of a credible nuclear war-fighting capability is an essential element of deterrence and that a credible nuclear weapons employment doctrine is equally essential; (2) that the current TNF posture is inconsistent with the doctrine of constrained use, fails to incorporate the state-of-the-art in technology and enjoys questionable survivability; and, finally, (3) that the current doctrine is inconsistent with the NATO objective of terminating conflict at the lowest level of violence and fails to provide the flexibility and responsiveness required by the tactical commander to 'fight the battle.' It recommends the TNF be restructured to an artillery heavy force and that the doctrine and release procedures be revised to provide for early, forward-use of nuclear weapons and timely, responsive nuclear fire support to the tactical commander. (Author)
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- May 18, 1977
- Accession Number
- ADA042857
Entities
People
- Robert E. Rogan
Organizations
- United States Army War College