Germany and the Future of Nuclear Deterrence in Europe
Abstract
The dissolution of the Soviet Union and the unification of Germany have fundamentally changed the politics of security in Europe. This thesis analyzes German perspectives on the international security environment and offers judgments about the probable future role of nuclear deterrence in European security. The thesis begins with a survey of the role of nuclear deterrence in the security policy of the Federal Republic of Germany during the period from 1945 to reunification in 1989-1990. This is followed by an analysis of German views on the following: the nuclear deterrence policies of the United Kingdom and France, the U.S. nuclear presence and U.S. commitments to Europe, nuclear weapons in the former Soviet Union, and the potential for nuclear proliferation on Europe's periphery. For the short term, Germany will not change its present policies regarding nuclear deterrence in Europe. The German nation is likely to remain preoccupied with the re-unification process for several years, and German politicians are not disposed to seek a debate on nuclear deterrence. The Germans generally consider Britain and France incapable of providing adequate nuclear protection for the Federal Republic in the near term, so the Germans will continue to rely on the United States for a nuclear guarantee.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Dec 01, 1992
- Accession Number
- ADA260378
Entities
People
- Edward G. Gunning Jr.
Organizations
- Naval Postgraduate School