What is the primary distinction between a tactical nuclear weapon (TNW) and a strategic nuclear weapon?

A tactical nuclear weapon (TNW), also known as a non-strategic nuclear weapon (NSNW), is designed for use on a battlefield in military situations, often with friendly forces nearby. In contrast, strategic nuclear weapons are intended for use against the enemy's interior, targeting military bases, cities, or industrial areas far from the front lines to cripple their ability to wage war.

What is the typical yield range for tactical nuclear weapons, and how does it compare to strategic weapons?

The yield of tactical nuclear weapons generally ranges from a fraction of a kiloton up to approximately 50 kilotons. Strategic nuclear weapons, on the other hand, typically have yields from 100 kilotons to over a megaton, with even larger warheads available. It's important to note that some variable-yield warheads can serve in both tactical and strategic roles.

Have tactical nuclear weapons ever been used in combat?

No, tactical nuclear weapons have never been used in combat situations. Despite their development and deployment, they remain unused in warfare.

What types of delivery systems can be equipped with tactical nuclear warheads?

Tactical nuclear weapons can be delivered via a variety of means, including gravity bombs, short-range missiles, artillery shells, land mines, depth charges, and torpedoes. Additionally, nuclear warheads can arm surface-to-air missiles (SAMs) and air-to-air missiles, as well as ground-based or shipborne systems.

What were some examples of small, portable tactical nuclear weapons developed?

Examples of small, portable tactical nuclear weapons include the Special Atomic Demolition Munition (SADM) and the Davy Crockett recoilless rifle. These were designed to be carried by a small team or mounted on a vehicle, though combining sufficient yield with portability presented challenges to their military utility.

What is the military purpose of using tactical nuclear weapons for demolitions?

In wartime, tactical nuclear weapons could be employed for demolishing critical 'chokepoints' that an enemy offensive might rely on. This includes destroying tunnels, narrow mountain passes, and long viaducts to impede enemy advances.

Is there a precise definition for the 'tactical' category of nuclear weapons based on range or yield?

No, there is no exact definition that precisely categorizes nuclear weapons as 'tactical' based on specific range or yield limitations. While generally smaller in explosive power than strategic weapons, the distinction can sometimes be fluid, with some warheads capable of fulfilling both roles.

How do modern tactical nuclear warheads compare in yield to the weapons used in Hiroshima and Nagasaki?

Modern tactical nuclear warheads can have yields up to the tens of kilotons, or potentially hundreds, which is several times greater than the explosive yield of the weapons used in the atomic bombings of Hiroshima and Nagasaki.

What specific features are designed to enhance the battlefield characteristics of some tactical nuclear weapons?

Some tactical nuclear weapons possess features designed for battlefield effectiveness, such as variable yield, allowing the explosive power to be adjusted for different situations. Another type includes enhanced radiation weapons, often called 'neutron bombs,' which prioritize maximizing ionizing radiation exposure while minimizing blast effects.

How did the strategic mission of nuclear weapons differ from the tactical mission during the Cold War?

Strategic nuclear weapons were assigned preplanned targets like enemy airfields, radars, and surface-to-air defenses, as well as counterforce strikes on hardened bases, aiming to neutralize the enemy's national defense capabilities. Tactical nuclear weapons, conversely, were optimized for time-sensitive strike missions, often against mobile military assets close to friendly forces, and were designed for near real-time engagement.

What role did tactical nuclear weapons play in the overall nuclear stockpile during the Cold War?

Tactical nuclear weapons constituted a significant portion of the peak nuclear weapons stockpiles held by nations during the Cold War era.

What is the primary risk associated with the use of tactical nuclear weapons?

The primary risk is that the use of tactical nuclear weapons could unexpectedly escalate a conflict beyond its initial boundaries, potentially leading to the use of strategic nuclear weapons. This escalation pathway is a major concern for international security.

How might the existence of low-yield tactical nuclear weapons encourage pre-emptive warfare?

The availability of small, low-yield tactical nuclear weapons, such as those with yields around 10 tons of TNT, might lower the threshold for their use during a crisis. This could make them seem more 'usable' in certain situations compared to high-yield strategic warheads, potentially encouraging pre-emptive nuclear strikes.

What measures have been taken to mitigate the risk of escalation from tactical nuclear weapon use?

To address the risk of escalation, stockpiles of tactical nuclear warheads have been dramatically reduced since the end of the Cold War, with the smallest types being completely eliminated. Additionally, modern Permissive Action Links (PALs) and associated communication infrastructure now allow for centralized political control over these weapons, even during combat.

What was the significance of the Intermediate-Range Nuclear Forces (INF) Treaty in 1987 regarding tactical nuclear weapons?

The Intermediate-Range Nuclear Forces (INF) Treaty, signed in 1987, helped to decrease tensions by banning ground-launched missiles and launchers with ranges between 500 km and 5,500 km. This was particularly significant in Europe, where many such systems were deployed.

What is the 'escalate to de-escalate' concept, and how does it relate to tactical nuclear weapons?

The 'escalate to de-escalate' concept, reportedly formulated by Vladimir Putin, suggests using tactical and strategic nuclear threats or strikes to de-escalate a conventional conflict or compel an enemy to disengage. This strategy implies a willingness to use nuclear weapons early in a conflict to achieve strategic objectives.

What actions has Russia taken regarding tactical nuclear weapons in Belarus?

In March 2023, President Putin announced Russia would station tactical nuclear weapons in Belarus, maintaining control over them. By December 2023, Belarusian President Lukashenko stated that the deliveries were completed. These weapons are primarily Iskander missile warheads.

How has the nature of tactical nuclear weapons potentially changed with modernization efforts like the B61 Mod 12?

With the introduction of the B61 Mod 12, the United States will possess nuclear bombs whose classification as strategic or tactical is determined solely by the mission, target, and the type of aircraft carrying them. Modern PAL mechanisms ensure centralized political control over these weapons, regardless of their intended role.

What was the yield of the W54 nuclear warhead used on the Davy Crockett?

The W54 nuclear warhead, as used on the Davy Crockett recoilless gun, had an explosive yield of either 10 or 20 tons of TNT equivalent.

What is the purpose of variable yield in tactical nuclear weapons?

Variable yield allows the explosive power of a tactical nuclear weapon to be adjusted over a wide range, enabling its use in different situations and potentially tailoring the effects to specific battlefield requirements.

What are enhanced radiation weapons, also known as 'neutron bombs'?

Enhanced radiation weapons, or 'neutron bombs,' are a type of tactical nuclear weapon specifically designed to maximize the emission of ionizing radiation while minimizing the blast effects. Their primary purpose is to incapacitate personnel with radiation rather than cause widespread destruction.

How did the US and USSR reduce their tactical nuclear weapons stockpiles after the Cold War?

As the Cold War concluded in 1991, both the United States and the Soviet Union (and subsequently Russia) withdrew most of their deployed tactical nuclear weapons and proceeded to dispose of them. This led to a significant decline in the number of such warheads held by these powers.

What concerns have been raised regarding the control of early tactical nuclear weapons?

Early tactical nuclear weapons, particularly smaller, low-yield ones, were sometimes under less stringent political control during military crises compared to strategic weapons. This raised concerns that a junior officer in a critical situation might be authorized to use such a weapon due to decentralized control mechanisms, like early versions of Permissive Action Links (PALs).

What is the significance of the 'suitcase nuke' reference in the context of tactical nuclear weapons?

The term 'suitcase nuke' is sometimes used, though often misleadingly, to refer to small, portable tactical nuclear weapons that could theoretically be carried in a suitcase. Examples like the Special Atomic Demolition Munition fall into this category, designed for tactical demolition purposes.

What was the yield of the W48 nuclear shell, and how many were produced?

The W48 was a very small tactical nuclear weapon designed as a 155-millimeter artillery shell. It had an explosive yield equivalent to 72 tons of TNT (0.072 kilotons), and approximately 100 such shells were produced during the Cold War.

What is the stated rationale behind Russia's decision to station tactical nuclear weapons in Belarus?

President Putin stated that Russia's stationing of tactical nuclear weapons in Belarus was comparable to decades of US deployment of similar weapons in allied countries. He presented it as a response to perceived security needs and a measure to bolster deterrence.

What specific types of missiles were mentioned in relation to Russia's tactical nuclear weapons in Belarus?

As of May 2023, the tactical nuclear weapons being stationed in Belarus were described as a small number of Iskander missile warheads. The Iskander missile system is capable of delivering these warheads.

What is the purpose of the 'escalate to de-escalate' doctrine attributed to Russia?

The 'escalate to de-escalate' doctrine suggests that Russia might use tactical nuclear weapons, or the threat thereof, early in a conflict to compel an adversary to back down or disengage, thereby preventing a larger conventional war from escalating further or achieving strategic goals rapidly.

What specific NATO plan was mentioned regarding tactical nuclear weapons in Europe?

Ten NATO member countries proposed a confidence-building plan aimed at increasing transparency and potentially leading to treaties to reduce the number of tactical nuclear weapons deployed in Europe.

How did NATO plan to upgrade its tactical nuclear weapons around 2012?

Around 2012, NATO was advancing a plan to equip its tactical nuclear weapons with precision guidance systems, making them more effective against hardened targets. Additionally, plans included carrying these weapons on stealth aircraft to enhance survivability against modern air defenses.

What does the article state about the potential use of tactical nuclear weapons on the Korean Peninsula?

The article mentions that on the Korean Peninsula, where North Korea possesses nuclear weapons and South Korea is compliant with the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT), there have been calls for the return of US-owned and operated short-range, low-yield nuclear weapons. These would serve as a local strategic deterrent against North Korea's nuclear arsenal and delivery systems.

What is the 'Davy Crockett' mentioned in the context of tactical nuclear weapons?

The Davy Crockett was a recoilless rifle that could fire a W54 nuclear warhead, which had a yield of 10 or 20 tons of TNT. It is cited as one of the smallest nuclear weapons ever developed and was designed for battlefield use.

What is the W48, and what was its yield?

The W48 was a very small tactical nuclear weapon designed as a 155-millimeter artillery shell. Its explosive yield was equivalent to 72 tons of TNT, or 0.072 kilotons.

What is the B61 nuclear bomb, and how does it relate to tactical and strategic roles?

The B61 nuclear bomb is a variable yield weapon that has been produced in versions capable of fulfilling both tactical and strategic roles. For instance, the lowest selectable yield for tactical versions (Mod 3 and Mod 4) is 0.3 kilotons (300 tons), and modern control mechanisms ensure centralized political oversight.

How does the B61 Mod 12 differ in its classification as tactical or strategic?

With the B61 Mod 12, the distinction between tactical and strategic roles is determined by the specific mission, the target, and the type of aircraft carrying the bomb, rather than inherent design differences. The United States plans to have four hundred identical bombs of this type.

What specific types of tactical nuclear weapons are listed for the United States?

The United States has developed various tactical nuclear weapons, including gravity bombs (Mark 7, B43, B57, B61 Mod-3/4/10, B83), warheads (W25, W33, W63, W64, W80, W85, W89), depth bombs (Mark 90, Mk 101 Lulu, Mk 105 Hotpoint, B57, B90), artillery shells (W9, W19, W23, W33, W48, W54, W74, W75, W79, W82), and atomic demolition munitions (XM1 ADM, T2 ADM, T4, Medium Atomic Demolition Munition, Special Atomic Demolition Munition, Tactical Atomic Demolition Munition).

What tactical nuclear weapons are listed for the Soviet Union?

The Soviet Union developed tactical nuclear weapons such as the RDS-4 and RDS-9. The RDS-9 was also used in the T-5 torpedo.

What tactical nuclear weapons are listed for the United Kingdom?

The United Kingdom's tactical nuclear weapons include the Red Beard (nuclear weapon), Red Snow, WE.177, and Blue Peacock.

What tactical nuclear weapons are listed for France?

France developed the TNA (Airborne nuclear warhead) as a tactical nuclear weapon.

What tactical nuclear weapons are listed for China?

China developed the Kuangbiao-1 as a tactical nuclear weapon.

What tactical nuclear weapons are listed for India?

India has developed the Shaurya missile, which can be considered a tactical nuclear weapon.

What tactical nuclear weapons are listed for Pakistan?

Pakistan has developed the Nasr missile, specifically described as a tactical nuclear missile.

What tactical nuclear weapons are listed for North Korea?

North Korea has developed the Hwasan-31, which is listed as a tactical nuclear weapon.

What is the significance of the Upshot-Knothole Grable test mentioned in the article?

The Upshot-Knothole Grable was a nuclear artillery test, demonstrating the capability to deliver a nuclear warhead via conventional artillery pieces, fitting within the category of tactical nuclear weapon delivery.

What was the range and yield of the Soviet OTR-21 Tochka missile mentioned?

The Soviet OTR-21 Tochka missile was capable of firing a 100 kiloton nuclear warhead over a distance of 185 kilometers.

What were the specifications of the American MGR-3 Little John missile mentioned?

The American MGR-3 Little John missile was approximately 4.4 meters long with a diameter of 32 cm and weighed 350 kg. It was capable of firing a W45 warhead, which had a 10 kiloton yield, over a distance of 19 km.

What was the range and yield of the French Pluton missile mentioned?

The French Pluton missile, seen around the 1970s, was capable of firing a 15 kiloton nuclear warhead over a distance of 120 km.

What is the 'Nuclear close calls' article mentioned in the 'Speculation on usage' section?

The 'Nuclear close calls' article, linked as a main article, likely details historical incidents where the use of nuclear weapons, potentially including tactical ones, was narrowly averted, highlighting the risks associated with these weapons.

What is the current status (as of May 2022) of the section on 'Treaty control'?

The section on 'Treaty control' includes a notice indicating it needs to be updated to reflect recent events or newly available information, as of May 2022.

What is the current status (as of October 2022) of the section on 'Speculation on usage'?

The section on 'Speculation on usage' includes a notice indicating it needs expansion, as of October 2022.

What is the context of Russia holding tactical nuclear weapon drills in May 2024?

In May 2024, Russia announced it would conduct drills involving tactical nuclear weapons. This announcement followed an exchange with senior Western officials, suggesting it was a response to perceived provocations or statements from Western leaders.

Tactical Nuclear Weapon Wiki: Tactical Nuclear Weapons: The Battlefield's Edge

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Definition

Battlefield Application

A tactical nuclear weapon (TNW), also known as a non-strategic nuclear weapon (NSNW), is a nuclear weapon specifically designed for use on a battlefield. This implies deployment in military situations where friendly forces may be in close proximity, potentially even on contested friendly territory.

Contrast with Strategic Weapons

TNWs are distinguished from strategic nuclear weapons, which are intended for targets deep within enemy territory—such as military bases, industrial centers, or cities—aimed at degrading the enemy's capacity to wage war. TNWs, conversely, are optimized for tactical objectives on or near the front lines.

Combat Usage

Despite their development and deployment, it is crucial to note that no tactical nuclear weapons have ever been employed in combat. Their existence primarily serves as a deterrent and a component of nuclear strategy.

Characteristics

Diverse Delivery Systems

Tactical nuclear weapons encompass a wide array of delivery platforms, including:

Gravity bombs
Short-range missiles
Nuclear artillery shells
Land mines
Nuclear depth charges
Nuclear torpedoes
Surface-to-air and air-to-air missiles armed with nuclear warheads.

Additionally, highly portable versions, sometimes referred to as "suitcase nukes," such as the Special Atomic Demolition Munition and the Davy Crockett recoilless rifle, have been developed, though their military utility can be limited by yield-to-portability ratios.

Yield and Power

There is no universally precise definition for the "tactical" category based on range or explosive yield. Generally, TNWs possess lower yields than strategic weapons, typically ranging from a fraction of a kiloton up to approximately 50 kilotons. However, even these "lower-yield" weapons are significantly more powerful than the atomic bombs used in Hiroshima and Nagasaki (which were approximately 15 and 21 kilotons, respectively). Some variable-yield warheads can serve in both tactical and strategic roles.

Specialized Features

Certain tactical nuclear weapons incorporate features designed to enhance their battlefield effectiveness. These include:

Variable Yield: Allows the explosive power to be adjusted across a wide range, adapting to different tactical scenarios.
Enhanced Radiation Weapons (Neutron Bombs): Designed to maximize the emission of ionizing radiation while minimizing blast effects, potentially targeting enemy personnel while reducing collateral damage to infrastructure.

Role & Escalation Risk

Battlefield Objectives

Tactical nuclear weapons are envisioned for use in specific battlefield scenarios, such as demolishing critical enemy "chokepoints" like tunnels, mountain passes, or bridges, thereby disrupting enemy offensives. Their role is distinct from strategic weapons, which target the enemy's broader war-making capabilities.

The Escalation Dilemma

A significant concern surrounding TNWs is the inherent risk of escalation. The use of even a low-yield tactical weapon against a similarly armed adversary could potentially trigger a rapid and uncontrollable escalation, leading to the use of strategic nuclear weapons. This "escalate to de-escalate" concept, though debated, highlights the precarious nature of tactical nuclear employment.

Control and Command

Historically, some smaller tactical nuclear weapons were under less stringent political control, raising concerns about their potential use during crises. While modern Permissive Action Links (PALs) and advanced communication systems ensure centralized political control by senior leaders, the perceived lower threshold for using tactical weapons remains a subject of strategic analysis.

Historical Context

Cold War Stockpiles

During the Cold War, tactical nuclear weapons constituted a substantial portion of the nuclear arsenals of both the United States and the Soviet Union. Thousands of these weapons were deployed across various platforms.

Post-Cold War Reductions

Following the end of the Cold War in 1991, significant efforts were made to reduce nuclear arsenals. Both the US and USSR (and subsequently Russia) withdrew the majority of their tactical nuclear weapons from deployment and disposed of them. By approximately 2010, stockpiles had dramatically decreased, with the smallest types largely eliminated.

Modern Context

Russian Deployments

In March 2023, Russia announced the stationing of tactical nuclear weapons in Belarus, asserting that it maintained control over the weapons. This move, involving warheads for systems like the Iskander missile, was framed by President Putin as a response to similar deployments by the United States in allied countries. Deliveries were reportedly completed by October 2023.

Ukraine Conflict

During the Russian invasion of Ukraine, there has been persistent speculation and rhetoric regarding the potential use of tactical nuclear weapons by Russia. These discussions are often linked to the perceived challenges Russia faces in the conflict and serve as a backdrop to ongoing geopolitical tensions.

US Modernization

The United States has continued to modernize its nuclear arsenal, including the B61 nuclear bomb. The B61 Mod 12 variant, for instance, is designed to be a common warhead for both strategic and tactical missions, adaptable based on the aircraft and target. Modern PAL mechanisms ensure centralized political control over these weapons, regardless of their designated role.

Examples

United States

The US has developed and deployed a wide range of tactical nuclear weapons across various platforms:

Gravity Bombs: Mark 7, B43, B57, B61 (Mods 3, 4, 10), B83.
Warheads: W25, W33, W63, W64, W80, W85, W89 (cancelled).
Depth Bombs: Mark 90, Mk 101 Lulu, Mk 105 Hotpoint, B57, B90 (cancelled).
Artillery: W9, W19, W23, W33, W48, W54, W74, W75, W79, W82.
Atomic Demolition Munitions (ADMs): XM1, T2, T4, Medium ADM, Special ADM, Tactical ADM.

Soviet Union / Russia

The Soviet Union developed several tactical nuclear systems:

RDS-4
RDS-9 (including the T-5 torpedo)

Modern Russian tactical nuclear capabilities are often associated with systems like the Iskander missile and are a subject of ongoing analysis.

United Kingdom

Notable UK tactical nuclear weapons included:

Red Beard
Red Snow
WE.177
Blue Peacock

France

France developed the TNA (Airborne nuclear warhead).

China

China has developed tactical nuclear capabilities, including the Kuangbiao-1.

India

India's tactical nuclear arsenal includes the Shaurya missile.

Pakistan

Pakistan fields the Nasr tactical nuclear missile.

North Korea

North Korea has developed tactical nuclear weapons, such as the Hwasan-31.

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References

Rock Island Arsenal atomictraveler.com

Russia's Nonstrategic Nuclear Weapons, by Dr. Jacob W. Kipp, Foreign Military Studies Office, Fort Leavenworth; published in Military Review MayâJune 2001

Kristensen, Hans M. "Germany and B61 Nuclear Bomb Modernization." FAS, 13 November 2012.

Ukraine war: Could Russia use tactical nuclear weapons? BBC (24/09/2022)

What if Vladimir Putin used nuclear weapons in Ukraine? Al Jazeera (24 Sep 2022)

'This Is Not a Bluff.' Putin Raises Specter of Nuclear Weapons Following Battlefield Losses Time (SEPTEMBER 21, 2022)

A full list of references for this article are available at the Tactical nuclear weapon Wikipedia page

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Disclaimer

Important Notice

This page was generated by an Artificial Intelligence and is intended for informational and educational purposes only. The content is based on a snapshot of publicly available data from Wikipedia and may not be entirely accurate, complete, or up-to-date.

This is not professional advice. The information provided on this website is not a substitute for professional military strategy, geopolitical analysis, or arms control consultation. Always refer to official documentation and consult with qualified experts for specific needs. Never disregard professional advice because of something you have read on this website.

The creators of this page are not responsible for any errors or omissions, or for any actions taken based on the information provided herein.

Tactical Nuclear Weapons

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Definition ℹ️

⚔️ Battlefield Application

🎯 Contrast with Strategic Weapons

📜 Combat Usage

Characteristics ⚙️

💣 Diverse Delivery Systems

💥 Yield and Power

⚡ Specialized Features

Role & Escalation Risk ⚠️

🛡️ Battlefield Objectives

📈 The Escalation Dilemma

🔒 Control and Command

Historical Context 📜

cold war Cold War Stockpiles

📉 Post-Cold War Reductions

Modern Context 📰

🇷🇺 Russian Deployments

🇺🇦 Ukraine Conflict

🇺🇸 US Modernization

Examples 🌍

🇺🇸 United States

🇷🇺 Soviet Union / Russia

🇬🇧 United Kingdom

🇫🇷 France

🇨🇳 China

🇮🇳 India

🇵🇰 Pakistan

🇰🇵 North Korea

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References

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Disclaimer ⚠️

📜 Important Notice

Dive in with Flashcard Learning!

Definition

Battlefield Application

Contrast with Strategic Weapons

Combat Usage

Characteristics

Diverse Delivery Systems

Yield and Power

Specialized Features

Role & Escalation Risk

Battlefield Objectives

The Escalation Dilemma

Control and Command

Historical Context

Cold War Stockpiles

Post-Cold War Reductions

Modern Context

Russian Deployments

Ukraine Conflict

US Modernization

Examples

United States

Soviet Union / Russia

United Kingdom

France

China

India

Pakistan

North Korea

Teacher's Corner

True or False?

Test Your Knowledge!

Gamer's Corner

Discover other topics to study!

References

Feedback & Support

Disclaimer

Important Notice