An analysis of technical and policy drivers in Current U.S. nuclear weapons force structure

Abstract

U.S. nuclear weapons force structure accounts for the number and types of strategic and nonstrategic weapon systems in various locations that comprise the nuclear arsenal. While exact numbers, locations, and detailed designs remain classified, motivations for the current and future of the nuclear arsenal is presented as a unique integration of logical technical and political information. The dynamic that results from military requirements, physical design limitations, and congressional response to balance deterrence with stockpile reductions has not produced the necessary level of change in the post-Cold War environment of the 21st century. As such, a stagnant position on nuclear weapons reductions diminishes the effect of U.S. global nonproliferation efforts.