Tactical Nuclear Weapons-Does the U.S. Army Still Need Them

摘要

The 1991 Bush disarmament initiative resulted in the withdrawal and elimination of U.S. tactical nuclear weapons from around the globe. The Bush Nuclear Disarmament left only the U.S. Air Force active in the business of tactical nuclear warfighting. Many critics of tactical nuclear weapons believe that the dramatically increased lethality and accuracy of conventional weapons systems are an adequate replacement for tactical nuclear weapons, achieving the desired results without the political consequences that many attach to the use of nuclear weapons. The U.S. Military's experiences in Desert Storm has provided fuel for both sides of this argument. Additionally, technology continues to improve the capability to tailor the effects of low-yield nuclear weapons to achieve the desired destructive results without the associated collateral damage. This paper will examine the following questions; 1. Do conventional 'smart' munitions provide an acceptable substitute for TNWs, or are small low- yield 'micro-nukes' and 'mini-nukes' the superior option. 2. Do the potential threat countries have sufficient WMD capability to warrant resurrection of the Army's tactical nuclear program. 3. Can the Army rely on the Air Force to provide for its TNW support, or does it require its own capabilities. Additionally, can the Army expect that its political leadership will allow it the option of nuclear weapons to support tactical operations.