Document Type
Book Chapter
Publication Date
2015
Department
Security Studies
Language
English
Publication Title
Deterrence Instability and Nuclear Weapons in South Asia
Abstract
In April 2011 Pakistan conducted a test of a new nuclear-capable short-range missile, the Hatf-IX (also referred to as the Nasr). Pakistan’s Inter-Services Public Relations Directorate described the Nasr as a “quick response system” designed to support “full spectrum deterrence” by countering India’s growing conventional force advantages. The Nasr is reported to have a range of 60 km as well as a terminal guidance system for improved accuracy. The development of short-range nuclear-capable systems such as the Nasr might entail parallel efforts to build small nuclear warheads that could be employed by a variety of new and existing platforms, possibly including cruise missiles and artillery, against advancing Indian conventional forces. Some argue that notwithstanding the small diameter of the Nasr — roughly 1 foot — Pakistan might be pursuing boosted fission, subkiloton-yield devices suitable for use on the battlefield. To have high confidence in such yields, Pakistan might have to resume nuclear testing.
Recommended Citation
McCausland, Jeffrey D. "Pakistan’s Tactical Nuclear Weapons: Operational Myths and Realities." In Deterrence Instability and Nuclear Weapons in South Asia, edited by Michael Krepon, Joshua T. White, Julia Thompson, and Shane Mason, 149-175. Washington, D.C.: Stimson, 2015.
Included in
Asian Studies Commons, Defense and Security Studies Commons, Peace and Conflict Studies Commons
Comments
This author post-print is made available on Dickinson Scholar with the permission of the publisher. For more information on the published version, visit Stimson Center's Website.
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