Weapons of Mass Destruction and the Global Nuclear Balance: A Quantitative and Arms Control Analysis

• NCJ Number: 192372
• Author(s): Anthony H. Cordesman
• Date Published: December 2001
• Length: 107 pages
• Sale Source: Ctr for Strategic and International Studies
• Publication Format: Document
• Publication Type: Legislation/Policy Analysis
• Language: English
• Country: United States of America
• Note: Downloaded December 28, 2001

Annotation

This document provides an arms control analysis of weapons of mass destruction and the global nuclear balance.

Abstract

Until START II enters into force, the United States is protecting options to maintain a strategic nuclear arsenal at essentially START I levels. Selected elements of U.S. strategic forces maintain the highest state of readiness to perform their strategic deterrence mission. The Department of Defense relies upon the Nuclear Mission Management Plan to provide an integrated approach for the support of the nuclear mission. Funding for strategic nuclear forces has significantly declined in recent years, as has the fraction of the total defense budget that is devoted to nuclear forces. Russia retains a significant strategic nuclear force capability, despite the decline in overall force size since the dissolution of the Soviet Union, and despite apparent defense budgetary shortfalls and system aging. The ongoing economic and political turmoil adds another dynamic to the serious potential for the proliferation of nuclear, biological, and/or chemical (NBC) and missile related technologies. China currently has over 100 nuclear warheads and is increasing the size, accuracy, and survivability of its nuclear missile force. China continues to maintain some elements of an offensive biological warfare program, and is believed to have an advanced chemical warfare program. North Korea’s NBC and missile programs remain key components of its overall security strategy. While India hopes to fully participate in international arms-control negotiations, it has no intention of scaling back its nuclear weapons program. India has many well qualified scientists, numerous biological and pharmaceutical production facilities, and biocontainment facilities suitable for research and development of dangerous pathogens. Pakistan’s nuclear and missile programs are part of Islamabad’s effort to preserve its territorial integrity against its principal external threat and rival, India.