Nuclear weapons delivery

Nuclear weapons delivery is the technology and systems used to place a nuclear weapon where it can cause damage. The method used depends on the design of the weapon, the tactical or strategic concept guiding its use, and the available delivery systems.

Methods of Delivery

Nuclear weapons delivery methods can be classified into two main categories: strategic and tactical.

Strategic Delivery

Strategic nuclear weapons are used in large-scale warfare. They are designed to target enemy cities, factories, and other large-area targets with the goal of causing massive damage and forcing the enemy to surrender. The most common delivery methods for strategic nuclear weapons are Intercontinental Ballistic Missiles (ICBMs) and Submarine-Launched Ballistic Missiles (SLBMs).

Intercontinental Ballistic Missiles

ICBMs are long-range missiles that can travel thousands of kilometers. They are launched from land-based silos and can carry multiple nuclear warheads. Each warhead can be directed to a different target, a capability known as Multiple Independently Targetable Reentry Vehicle (MIRV).

Submarine-Launched Ballistic Missiles

SLBMs are launched from submarines. This gives them the advantage of mobility and makes them harder to detect and destroy before launch. Like ICBMs, SLBMs can also carry multiple warheads and use MIRV technology.

Tactical Delivery

Tactical nuclear weapons are used in specific battlefield situations. They are designed to target enemy military forces and facilities. The most common delivery methods for tactical nuclear weapons are Artillery and Cruise Missiles.

Artillery

Nuclear artillery is a weapon that fires a nuclear warhead in a shell from a large cannon. The range is usually shorter than that of a ballistic missile.

Cruise Missiles

Cruise missiles are self-propelled guided missiles that carry a nuclear warhead. They fly at low altitudes to avoid radar detection and can be launched from various platforms, including ships, submarines, aircraft, and land vehicles.

See Also

• Nuclear warfare
• Nuclear strategy
• Nuclear proliferation