Overview

This book offers a new analytical framework for studying nuclear command and control (C2), based on a comparative study of four nuclear weapons states (NWS). The subject of nuclear operations management has long been shrouded in secrecy, and whilst the importance of nuclear C2 cannot be disputed, there are few academic studies into how and why states develop these systems. This volume includes a comparative study of the development of nuclear C2 by four different NWS (Britain, China, India, and Pakistan) and demonstrates that, despite several differences, there is a central set of factors that remain constant. The analytical framework used in this study identifies key factors that can potentially shape the evolution and stability of nuclear C2. These factors include geostrategic (threat) environment, international norms, leadership, and control of nuclear operations (civil-military control). The book also analyses the interaction among different stakeholders within the nuclear C2 enterprise. It recognises that politicians, the military and scientists all have key but different roles to play, and the way these stakeholders have learned to co-exist with each other is explored. This volume offers a set of dynamics that could form a global norm for nuclear C2, serving as a standard for new entrants into the nuclear club. This book will be of much interest to students of nuclear proliferation, global governance, and International Relations in general.

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9780367585167

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Reviews

"""Salma Shaheen uses a multifaceted framework to analyze existing nuclear weapons states with the goal of drawing conclusions for what steps countries can take to maximize stability of nuclear weapons on the global stage. Remarkably, the author has accomplished this thorough analysis in spite of the veil of secrecy and close hold on specific information on how countries conduct nuclear command and control. Shaheen’s framework provides a valuable tool to evaluate the relative stability of other nuclear powers, such as North Korea, or potential future emerging nuclear states."" Jonathan Malda, H-Net Reviews"

""Salma Shaheen uses a multifaceted framework to analyze existing nuclear weapons states with the goal of drawing conclusions for what steps countries can take to maximize stability of nuclear weapons on the global stage. Remarkably, the author has accomplished this thorough analysis in spite of the veil of secrecy and close hold on specific information on how countries conduct nuclear command and control. Shaheen’s framework provides a valuable tool to evaluate the relative stability of other nuclear powers, such as North Korea, or potential future emerging nuclear states."" Jonathan Malda, H-Net Reviews

Salma Shaheen uses a multifaceted framework to analyze existing nuclear weapons states with the goal of drawing conclusions for what steps countries can take to maximize stability of nuclear weapons on the global stage. Remarkably, the author has accomplished this thorough analysis in spite of the veil of secrecy and close hold on specific information on how countries conduct nuclear command and control. Shaheen's framework provides a valuable tool to evaluate the relative stability of other nuclear powers, such as North Korea, or potential future emerging nuclear states. Jonathan Malda, H-Net Reviews

Author Information

Salma Shaheen holds a PhD in War Studies from Kings College London, UK

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