Counterproliferation of Nuclear Weapons

The proliferation of nuclear weapons remains a significant security challenge to the United States of America. The combination of global terrorism combined with the spread of nuclear weapons poses an especially unnerving combination of threats. Non-proliferation policies and goals remain an important part of the nations strategy in this new environment. Furthermore, the United States must employ a diplomacy led approach to contain the spread of nuclear weapons and maintain an appropriate counterproliferation capacity. This essay uses a historical review of the proliferation of nuclear weapons to identify trends that result in nuclear proliferation. Additionally, it looks at the awareness following the 911 attacks of a possible vulnerability resulting from the combination of terrorism and nuclear weapons. Likewise, it explores three case studies that present successful counterproliferation operations to identify and evaluate a spectrum of possible future counterproliferation measures. Finally, following a review of current national policy, the essay presents recommendations to improve the Obama administrations approach to non-proliferation and counterproliferation issues.