Publication
Still a useful myth? NATO’s theater nuclear weapons as tools of alliance management
Linde Desmaele, explores the role of US theatre nuclear weapons (TNW) currently stationed in Europe. She moves beyond the deterrence vs. reassurance debate and argues that these weapons primarily serve as tools of alliance management through nuclear deflection, legitimation, and consultation.
- Author
- Linde Desmaele
- Date
- 03 March 2025
- Links
- Read the full article here
The research argues that US TNW in Europe serve three key functions in alliance management. Firstly, it facilitates nuclear deflection, shifting focus from the responsibilities and costs associated with conventional weapons. Secondly, it provides a means of nuclear legitimation, reinforcing the alliance's commitment to nuclear deterrence as the basis for NATO's overall defense strategy. Finally, it compels nuclear consultation, ensuring ongoing transatlantic political linkage due to the continued US presence in Europe.
The article draws on historical records, parliamentary documents, NATO sources, and interviews with officials to support its argument. Linde Desmaele suggests that these alliance-management functions have been a key incentive for NATO allies to maintain the nuclear status quo, despite doubts about the strategic and operational benefits of the TNW mission.
The author concludes that advocates and critics of the TNW mission need to consider the costs, risks, and benefits that may result for different allies in light of these weapons' alliance-management functions. The research contributes to the literature on nuclear posture decisions by emphasizing alliance management as a crucial, yet often overlooked, factor.