The Return of Tactical Nuclear Weapons
Öz
Nuclear weapons (NWs) have changed the nature of warfare since their first use on the battlefield during World War II (WWII). Nuclear deterrence based on Mutual Assured Destruction, has shaped international politics and become a crucial factor in the relationship between the US and the Soviet Union throughout the Cold War. Tactical nuclear weapons (TNWs), also known as sub-strategic nuclear weapons, are defined as NWs which are not categorized as Strategic nuclear weapons (SNWs). They are deployed in Europe and Asia as part of nuclear deterrence and have played a crucial role in the US assurance to its allies. However, their function in the battlefield has remained unclear. The early post-Cold War era altered the security environment in Europe, leading European allies to question the value of TNWs and demand the US to withdraw them. However, the Russian - Ukrainian War has heightened the significance of both NWs and TNWs, now viewed as an essential component of US security commitment against the escalating Russian threat and started to play again an important role in European security.
Anahtar Kelimeler
Tactical Nuclear Weapons, Assurance, NATO, Nuclear Deterrence, F-35
Kaynakça
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