Conclusion

Abstract

In the first major contribution by a civilian to nuclear strategy, Bernard Brodie observed that ‘everything about the atomic bomb is overshadowed by the twin facts that it exists and its destructive power is fantastically great’.¹ Since then the major additional fact is that the bomb is no longer monopolized by the United States. Otherwise all developments have served to increase this destructive power and the ease with which it can be delivered. Strategic thinking over the past three and a half decades has been conditioned by these facts. Simplifying somewhat, three basic responses can be identified.