Crossing the Red Line

This book addresses the incentives for nations to develop nuclear weapons and the technical expertise needed for that purpose. Ballistic missiles are required by any nation wanting to optimize the effectiveness of deterrence and the threat derived from possessing nuclear weapons. The basic science of ballistic missile programs is discussed using the North Korean program as an example, although to some extent the programs of other countries are also covered. In addition, there is an introduction to the basics of nuclear weapons technology.

Unlike most books on these topics, this one includes, besides the technical component, the policy aspects surrounding nuclear weapons. It also shows how nuclear weapons can — and have — stabilized conflicts, discussing why the concept of deterrence may not always be relied upon to prevent war. The origin of terrorism in the Middle East and the possibility of nuclear terrorism originating from that region are other topics of interest.

Contents:PrefaceOriginsThe Nuclear Option in the 21st CenturyDeveloping Nation Nuclear PoliciesControlling the Spread of Nuclear WeaponsNorth Korea and the BombHow Much Weapons-Grade Fissile Material Could North Korea Have?How Many Bombs Could North Korea Have?Rocket FundamentalsThe North Korean Rocket ProgramNuclear Proliferation and Its ConsequencesThe Future Control of Nuclear WeaponsNorth Korea Negotiations 2018AfterwordAppendices:North Korean Ballistic Missiles and US Missile DefenceNuclear TerrorismA Short Background on ChinaA History of Islamic TerrorismIndex
Readership: Students, researchers and policy makers interested in the proliferation of nuclear weapons and ballistic missile technology.
Key Features:Extensive coverage of diverse topics forging links between themOnly book to tackle nuclear and ballistic missile technical analyses