Joint Force Quarterly
Abstract
This article proposes an approach to nuclear force sizing debates based on a framework built on four analytic dimensions: overarching risk management approaches; deterrence and assurance objectives; strategic force employment guidance; and operational constraints. The answers to key questions across these dimensions provide a structure to inform debates about the appropriate size and characteristics of U.S. nuclear forces. Only after clarifying U.S. objectives across these dimensions and focusing on key considerations therein should policymakers enter nuclear force sizing debates. The resulting analysis does not advocate for any policy position or hypothesize the “correct” number of nuclear forces. Instead, the purpose of the framework is to focus nuclear force sizing debates on more fundamental assumptions regarding the role of nuclear weapons in achieving U.S. national security objectives.
Recommended Citation
McKenna, Patrick and Land, Dylan
(2024)
"Don’t Get Lost in the Numbers: An Analytic Framework for Nuclear Force Requirements Debates,"
Joint Force Quarterly: Vol. 112, Article 11.
Available at:
https://digitalcommons.ndu.edu/joint-force-quarterly/vol112/iss1/11
Included in
Defense and Security Studies Commons, Military History Commons, Peace and Conflict Studies Commons, Public Policy Commons