Military dimensions

Abstract

The military dimensions associated with nuclear arms control, disarmament and non-proliferation verification of a state's commitments are key for any significant and solid progress to be made. Verification of compliance and assurances of the absence of cheating are very sensitive issues, in particular with respect to the military capabilities that form the foundation of strategic and political posture at a national, regional and global level. This article sets the scene through a brief historical review of the influence that verification has on the credibility of arms control measures, the effectiveness of nuclear non-proliferation efforts and the importance of the nuclear disarmament process. In the framework of nuclear disarmament verification the main features of the military nuclear system are the doctrines, research & development, production, deployment and elimination of nuclear weapons, and the verification measures associated with disarmament commitments. Finally, a brief description of the complexity of regional, multinational and international instruments is provided. Using a systems concept to establish a verification mechanism, taking into account the specificity and the issues impacting individual states, could overcome the global complexity and national antagonisms and provide the confidence needed to enhance world global security.