NATO as a nuclear alliance: NATO’s nuclear capability and its evolution in the international nuclear order

Tapio Juntunen, Jyri Lavikainen, Matti Pesu, Iro Särkkä

Research output: Book/ReportCommissioned report

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Abstract

The aim of this report is to provide an overview of the structure and trends of the international nuclear order, the basics of NATO's nuclear deterrence and its implementation, and decision-making related to the alliance's nuclear weapons policy. The study will also assess how Finland can participate in NATO's nuclear deterrence policy if it so wishes and what effects NATO membership will have on Finland's arms control policy.

Nuclear deterrence constitutes one part of NATO's deterrence mix, and the Alliance views nuclear weapons as the supreme guarantee of its security. U.S. nuclear weapons form the backbone of NATO's nuclear deterrence, and a small proportion of its nuclear weapons are stationed in allied countries. According to NATO's statements, the purpose of its nuclear deterrence is to preserve peace, prevent coercion and deter military aggression. NATO's focus in recent years has been on developing conventional deterrence, but it is also making moderate changes to its nuclear weapons policy.

NATO’s nuclear deterrence policy has various participatory elements. The Alliance has its own senior body for discussion on nuclear weapons: the Nuclear Planning Group. Non-nuclear allies such as Finland have several opportunities to influence and participate in the alliance's nuclear weapons policy. Importantly, as a member of NATO, Finland can continue its active arms control efforts.
Original languageEnglish
Place of PublicationHelsinki
PublisherPrime Minister's Office
Commissioning bodyValtioneuvoston tutkimus- ja selvitystoiminta
Number of pages129
ISBN (Electronic)978-952-383-203-9
Publication statusPublished - 2024
Publication typeD4 Published development or research report or study

Publication series

NamePublications of the Government's analysis, assessment and research activities
PublisherPrime Minister's Office
No.25
Volume2024
ISSN (Electronic)2342-6799

Keywords

  • NATO
  • arms control
  • national security
  • nuclear weapons
  • deterrence

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