Tactical Nuclear Weapons: European Perspectives

The introduction of new-generation tactical nuclear weapons into Europe in the 1970s raised concerns about the potential for disastrous consequences and the risk of escalation to strategic nuclear war. This book, published in 1978, was the result of a SIPRI meeting that discussed the issue and highlighted the dangers of using nuclear weapons, emphasizing that any use is likely to escalate until all available weapons are used.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 388 pages
Publication date: 04 September 2022
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

In the 1970s, the topic of tactical nuclear warfare gained significant attention. The introduction of the new generation of tactical nuclear weapons into Europe posed a grave risk of catastrophic consequences. These advanced weapons had already been developed by nuclear-weapon laboratories, and there was growing pressure to deploy them.

At first glance, smaller and more accurate nuclear weapons may appear more humane and militarily advantageous compared to the relatively high-yield tactical nuclear weapons currently in use. However, some of these new types of weapons would blur the line between nuclear and conventional weapons, making the likelihood of escalation to strategic nuclear war extremely high. Indeed, proponents of these new weapons argue that their use in wartime is more credible and therefore "acceptable" than current tactical nuclear weapons. This perception could easily lead to the dangerous notion that certain types of tactical nuclear wars could be deemed "winnable."

It is crucial to acknowledge that any use of nuclear weapons is almost certain to escalate until all available weapons are deployed. To believe otherwise is to assume that one side will surrender before utilizing their entire arsenal. Historical evidence suggests that this is highly unlikely to occur.

Recognizing the significance of this issue, the International Institute for Strategic Studies (SIPRI) convened a meeting to address the matter. The result of this meeting was the publication of this book, originally released in 1978.

Weight: 725g
Dimension: 234 x 156 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780367513290