Soviet Theater Nuclear Forces: Implications for NATO Defense.
Abstract
This memorandum examines the nature of the Soviet theater nuclear force improvements, the role nuclear weapons play in Soviet doctrine, and the implications of the Soviet theater nuclear buildup for deterrence and defense in Europe. The author concludes that the changing balance of theater nuclear capabilities has resulted in a devaluation of the Western nuclear deterrent, a decline in Western self-confidence, and increase in the vulnerability of the West's nuclear forces and critical command, control, and supply nodes. In response, the author contends that the West must shift the emphasis of its nuclear capabilities from short-range, battlefield systems to long-range Eurostrategic systems, modernize its short-range systems through the introduction of reduced blast/enhanced radiation weapons, and optimize its training, doctrine, force structures, and force dispositions for operations in a nuclear as well as conventional and chemical environments.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Sep 01, 1981
- Accession Number
- ADA107988
Entities
People
- Robert T. Kennedy
Organizations
- United States Army War College