A

Active Defenses

Active defenses use weapons systems or countermeasures to blunt an attack as it is taking place. Anti-ballistic-missile defenses are the most visible and most controversial example today.

Additional Protocol

The Additional Protocol is a legal document granting the IAEA complementary inspection authority to to that provided in underlying safeguards agreements.  A principal aim is to enable the IAEA inspectorate to provide assurance about both declared and possible undeclared activities.  Under the Protocol, the IAEA is granted expanded rights of access to information and sites, as well as additional authority to use the most advanced technologies during the verification process.

Ad Hoc Group of Governmental Experts to Identify and Examine Verification Measures from a Scientific and Technical Standpoint (VEREX)

Created in September 1991 during the Third Review Conference of the Biological and Toxin Weapons Convention (BWC). VEREX was tasked with identifying measures that could be used to determine whether a state party to the BWC is "developing, producing, stockpiling, acquiring, or retaining" biological weapons (BW). In its final report of September 24, 1993, it described and analyzed 21 such measures.

Aerosol

A system of liquid or solid particles uniformly distributed in a finely divided state through a gas, usually air.

African Nuclear-Weapon-Free-Zone

See Treaty of Pelindaba below.

Agency for the Prohibition of Nuclear Weapons in Latin America and the Caribbean (OPANAL)

OPANAL is an inter-governmental agency created by the Treaty of Tlatelolco to ensure that the obligations of the treaty are met. OPANAL also supervises all the contracting parties' compliance with the Treaty of Tlatelolco.

Agreed Framework

The 1994 agreement between the United States and North Korea (Democratic People's Republic of Korea, DPRK) to "freeze" the DPRK nuclear program. The agreement outlined a 10-year program during which the United States, South Korea and Japan would construct two new proliferation-resistant, light-water-moderated nuclear reactors in the DPRK in exchange for the shutting down of all its existing nuclear facilities. In addition, the DPRK agreed to remain a party to the nuclear Nonproliferation Treaty (NPT) and accept International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) full-scope safeguards. The multilateral Korean Peninsula Energy Development Organization (KEDO) would oversee implementation of the agreement.

Agreement Governing the Activities of States on the Moon and Other Celestial Bodies (Moon Agreement)

The Moon agreement was opened for signature on December 18, 1979, and entered into force on July 11, 1984. The agreement supplemented the Outer Space Treaty and confirmed the demilitarization of the moon and other celestial bodies. Activities on the moon are limited to peaceful purposes.

Air Defenses

Systems deployed to defend territory or troops from attack by aircraft or cruise missiles.

Al-Aqsa Intifadah

A violent uprising by Palestinians in the Israeli-occupied West Bank. The Al-Aqsa Intifadah began on September 29, 2000, with a visit by one-time Israeli Defense Minister (and now Prime Minister) Ariel Sharon to the Al-Aqsa Mosque/Temple Mount in Jerusalem, a holy site for both Muslims and Jews.

Alpha particle

A positively charged particle ejected spontaneously from the nuclei of some radioactive elements. It is identical to a helium nucleus that has a mass number of 4 and an electrostatic charge of +2. It has low penetrating power and a short range (a few centimeters in air). The most energetic alpha particle will generally fail to penetrate the dead layers of cells covering the skin and can be easily stopped by a sheet of paper. Alpha particles are hazardous when an alpha-emitting isotope is inside the body.

Al-Qa'ida

An Islamic terrorist organization led by Osama bin Laden. Al-Qa'ida means "the base" in Arabic and acts as an umbrella organization for a number of terrorist groups around the world. Al-Qa'ida is considered to be responsible for a number of attacks against Americans, including the September 11, 2001 attacks on the World Trade Center and Pentagon.

Anarchism

An ideology adopted by various revolutionary groups operating in Europe and North America from the latter half of the nineteenth century until the first two decades of the twentieth century. It promoted the overthrow of tyranny. Anarchists primarily targeted heads of state and senior government officials for assassination.

Antarctic Treaty

This Treaty was opened for signature on December 1, 1959, and entered into force on June 23, 1961. The Antarctic Treaty internationalizes and demilitarizes the Antarctic continent. It specifies that Antarctica be used for peaceful purposes only; all activities of a military nature, including testing of any type of weapon, are prohibited. No military activities, armaments, or prohibited nuclear activities have been observed on the continent during inspections by member states since the treaty went into force. As of August 2001, there were 44 member states to the Antarctic Treaty.

Anthrax

An infectious disease caused by the bacterium Bacillus anthracis. Weaponized anthrax spores are dispersed by aerosol and are highly lethal to humans. Anthrax has been produced as a biological weapons agent, and is suspected as a potential agent for use by biological terrorists.

Anti-Ballistic Missile (ABM) Treaty

The ABM Treaty, which was signed by the United States and the former Soviet Union on May 26, 1972, and entered into force on October 3, 1972, constrained strategic missile defenses to a total of 200 launchers and interceptors per country- 100 at each of two widely separated deployment areas. These restrictions were intended to prevent the establishment of a nationwide defense of the creation of a base for deploying such a defense. The treaty was modified in 1974, reducing the number of ABM deployment areas permitted each side from two to one and the number of ABM launchers and interceptors from 200 to 100. The United States withdrew from the treaty in 2001.

Anti-Satellite Weapon

A system designed to destroy or disable enemy satellites in orbit.

Arms control

Any unilateral or multilateral measure taken to reduce or control any aspect of either a weapon system or armed forces. Such reductions or limitations might affect the size, type, configuration, production, or performance characteristics of a weapon system, or the size, organization, equipment, deployment, or employment of armed forces.

Arms Control and Regional Security in the Middle East (ACRS)

The Madrid Peace Conference in October 1991 established a multilateral working group on Arms Control and Regional Security. The ACRS working group, along with four other multilateral working groups, was created to complement bilateral negotiations between Israel and its immediate neighbors. Since 1992, 13 Arab states, Israel, a Palestinian delegation, and a number of extra-regional entities have participated in plenary and intercessional meetings focusing on both conceptual and operational confidence-building and arms control measures applicable to the Middle East. However, the lack of universal membership in the region (neither Iran nor Iraq is a party to the ACRS) and complications in the peace process have hindered progress. The agreed measures have not been implemented, and ACRS has not held a formal plenary meeting since September 1995.

Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN)

The Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) was established on August 8, 1967 in Bangkok by the five original member countries (Indonesia, Malaysia, Philippines, Singapore, and Thailand). Brunei Darussalam joined on January 8, 1984, Vietnam on July 28, 1995, Laos and Myanmar on July 23, 1997, and Cambodia on April 30 1999. The objectives of the ASEAN include the acceleration of economic growth and the promotion of regional peace and stability. During the Fifth ASEAN Summit in 1995, the Treaty of Bangkok, the NWFZ in Southeast Asia, was opened for signature.

Atom

The smallest particle of an element which cannot be divided or broken up by chemical means and has all the chemical properties of that element. It consists of a central core of protons and neutrons, called the nucleus. Electrons revolve in orbits in the region surrounding the nucleus. It is the fundamental building block of elements.

Atomic

Pertaining to an atom, the smallest part of an element that has all the properties of that element, composed of a nucleus of protons and neutrons with a number of electrons orbiting the nucleus.

Atomic bomb

A weapon that uses fissile material in isotopes of uranium or plutonium to provide explosive power.

Atomic energy

Energy released in nuclear reactions. Of particular interest is the energy released when a neutron initiates the breaking up or fissioning of an atom's nucleus into smaller pieces (fission), or when two nuclei are joined together under millions of degrees of heat (fusion). It is more correctly called nuclear energy.

Atoms for Peace

The U.S. program announced by President Dwight D. Eisenhower at the United Nations in December 8, 1953, to share nuclear materials and technology for peaceful purposes with other countries. This program required countries receiving nuclear materials to agree to inspections of the transferred technology to ensure it was not used for military purposes. The program was formally established in 1954, following the passage of the Atomic Energy Act.

Aum Shinrikyo

A Japanese religious cult noteworthy for its use of CW and BW. Made a number of attacks using different nerve agents culminating in the Tokyo subway attack with sarin gas which killed 12, and injured 1,039 people in 1995. In 2000, Aum Shinrikyo changed its name to Aleph, along with revisions of its documents. The cult apologized for the attack and established a compensation fund for its victims. The Japanese government still considers the cult a threat to society.

Australia Group

An informal arrangement established in 1985 to limit the spread of chemical and biological weapons (CBW) through the control of exports of chemical precursors, equipment, agents, and organisms. As of September 2005, there were 39 members in the Australia Group: Argentina, Australia, Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Canada, Czech Republic, Republic of Cyprus, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Ireland, Italy, Japan, Latvia, Lithuania, Republic of Korea, Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands, New Zealand, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Slovak Republic, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Republic of Turkey, Ukraine, United Kingdom, and the United States with the European Commission as a permanent observer.

B

Bacillus anthracis

See Anthrax

Ballistic missile

A missile that travels to its target unpowered and unguided after being launched at a velocity such that it will follow a flight trajectory to a desired point. Part of the flight of longer-range ballistic missiles may occur outside the atmosphere and involve the "reentry" of the missile.

Ballistic missile defense (BMD)

All active and passive measures designed to detect, identify, track, and defeat attacking ballistic missiles, in both strategic and theater tactical roles, during any portion of their flight trajectory (boost, post-boost, mid-course, or terminal phase) or to nullify or reduce the effectiveness of such attack. [See WMD 411 Issues in Debate: Limiting the Use of WMD through BMD]

Baruch Plan

The U.S. initiative to outlaw nuclear weapons and to internationalize global stocks of fissile material for use in peaceful nuclear programs. After Bernard Baruch proposed the plan in 1946 at the United Nations, the United States and Soviet Union held negotiations on the program but never reached agreement. The United States insisted on retaining control of its nuclear weapons while all fissile material was put under international control, while the Soviet Union demanded that the United States cede its weapons to international control before other countries gave up their fissile material. The United States also wanted sanctions for noncompliance as part of the regime, while the Soviet Union objected.

Beta particle

A charged particle emitted from a nucleus during radioactive decay, with a mass equal to 1/1837 that of a proton. A negatively charged beta particle is identical to an electron. A positively charged beta particle is called a positron. Large amounts of beta radiation may cause skin burns, and beta emitters are harmful if they enter the body. Beta particles may be stopped by thin sheets of metal or plastic.

Belligerent reprisal

An enforcement measure under the law of armed conflict consisting of an act that would otherwise be unlawful but which is justified as a response to the unlawful acts of a enemy. The sole purpose of a reprisal is to induce the enemy to cease its illegal activity and to comply with the law of armed conflict. Reprisals may be taken against enemy armed forces, enemy civilians other than those in occupied territory, and enemy property.

Bilateral

Negotiations, arrangements, agreements, or treaties that affect or are between two parties, countries, etc.

Biological and Toxin Weapons Convention (BWC)

The "Convention on the Prohibition of the Development, Production and Stockpiling of Bacteriological (Biological) and Toxin Weapons and on Their Destruction" prohibits the development, production, or stockpiling of bacteriological and toxin weapons. Countries must destroy, or divert to peaceful purposes, all agents, toxins, weapons, equipment, and means of delivery within nine months after the entry into force of the convention. The BWC was opened for signature on April 10, 1972, and entered into force on March 26, 1975. In 1994, the BWC member states created the Ad Hoc Group to negotiate a legally binding BWC Protocol that would help deter violations of the BWC. The draft protocol outlines a monitoring regime that would require declarations of dual-use activities and facilities, routine visits to declared facilities, and short-notice challenge investigations. As of January 2006, there are 156 States Parties and 16 signatories which have yet to ratify, to the BWC. 21 states have not yet signed it.

Biological weapon (BW)

A device that projects, disperses, or disseminates living microorganisms, biological agents, or toxins.

Bioterrorism

A shortened form of the term biological terrorism.

Binary chemical weapon

Ammunition in which chemical substances, held in separate containers, react when mixed or combined as a result of being fired, launched or otherwise initiated to produce a chemical agent. Can also involve the mixing of chemicals on the battlefield immediately prior to use which could be a method employed by terrorists. Has significant benefits for transportation and handling of chemical weapons.

Blister Agent

A chemical agent which injures the eyes and lungs, and burns or blisters the skin. Usually dispersed as a liquid or vapor. Although not usually fatal, exposure can result in severe blistering, temporary or sometimes permanent blindness, and death in some cases of inhalation. Also called vesicant.

Blood agent

A type of chemical weapon, including the cyanide group, that affects bodily functions by preventing the normal utilization of oxygen by body tissues.

Bombers

Aircraft carrying conventional or nuclear bombs or conventionally or nuclear-armed cruise missiles for use against ground targets.

Boost-phase

That part of the ballistic missile flight path that begins at launch and lasts up to five minutes for a primitive liquid-fueled inter-continental ballistic missile (ICBM) or as little as 80 seconds for an advanced solid-fueled ICBM. During boost phase, the booster and sustainer engines operate, and warheads have not yet been deployed.

Boosted fission nuclear weapon

A nuclear weapon that relies primarily on fission, but gets some of its power from fusion.

Brazilian-Argentine Agency for Accounting and Control of Nuclear Materials (ABACC)

This bilateral safeguards agency was established under an agreement between Argentina and Brazil to verify the exclusively peaceful use of nuclear energy in each country. The agreement establishing the agency was signed in Guadalajara, Mexico, on July 18, 1991.

C

Cairo Declaration on the Denuclearization of Africa

The Declaration on the Denuclearization of Africa was adopted at the first Assembly of Heads of States and Government of the Organization of African Unity (OAU) in Cairo in July 1964. The declaration called upon all states to respect the continent of Africa as a nuclear-weapon-free zone, and committed the African states to negotiate an international agreement, to be concluded under the auspices of the United Nations, not to manufacture or control atomic weapons. The declaration was submitted to the United Nations General Assembly during its session of 1965.

Canberra Commission on the Elimination of Nuclear Weapons

Established by Australia in November 1995, the commission was created to develop ideas and propose practical steps to create a nuclear weapon free world, including the related problem of maintaining stability and security during the transitional period and after this goal is achieved. On August 31, 1996, the Commission presented its findings to the Australian government, which then submitted the Canberra Report to the UN General Assembly and to the Conference on Disarmament.

CDC (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention)

The lead federal agency responsible for protecting the health and safety of American citizens at home and abroad, providing credible information to enhance health decisions, and promoting health through strong partnerships. The CDC serves as the national focus for developing and applying disease prevention and control, environmental health, and health promotion and education activities designed to improve the health of the people of the United States.

Central and Eastern Europe NWFZ

In July 1996, Belarus and Ukraine called for a Central and Eastern European NWFZ. However, several countries in the area were interested in joining NATO and opposed to the proposal. Poland at the 1998 NPT Preparatory Committee, in a letter addressed to the chairman of the PrepCom on behalf of nine of the key states (Bulgaria, Croatia, the Czech Republic, Hungary, Poland, Romania, Slovakia, the former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia and Slovenia) which would comprise such a zone, opposed the idea as "incompatible with our sovereign resolve to contribute to, and benefit from the new European security architecture...;"

Central Asia Nuclear-Weapon-Free Zone (CANWFZ)

The CANWFZ will include all the five Central Asian states: Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, and Uzbekistan. The Uzbek president first proposed the establishment of the CANWFZ in 1993 at the United Nations General Assembly. The Almaty Declaration issued by the five presidents of the Central Asian states on February 27, 1997, endorsed the creation of the CANWFZ. Although the five states agreed upon the draft treaty text in September 2002 and finalized it in February 2005, it has not opened for signature yet.

Chain reaction (fission)

A process taking place in an atomic bomb or nuclear reactor in which one fission event releases neutrons and energy. The neutrons in turn produce more fissions releasing more energy and forming a chain of nuclear fissions.

Challenge inspection

An inspection triggered by a suspected violation of a treaty or agreement. For example, under the Conventional Forces in Europe Treaty (CFE), the challenge inspection provision allows parties to inspect a specific and limited area beyond those sites already listed. This provision increases the likelihood of detecting weapons at sites not declared in the data exchanged under the treaty. The Chemical Weapons Convention (CWC) allows for a team of international inspectors to inspect on a very short notice a party's facility suspected of violating the CWC.

Charged particle

An elementary particle carrying a positive or negative electric charge.

Chemical weapon (CW)

Gaseous, liquid, or solid chemical substances with toxic properties that are delivered using munitions and dispersal devices to cause death or severe harm to humans, animals, and plants. CW include blister, nerve, choking, and blood agents.

Chemical Weapons Convention (CWC)

Formally known as the "Convention on the Prohibition of the Development, Production, Stockpiling, and Use of Chemical Weapons and on Their Destruction," this treaty requires each state party to destroy all the chemical weapons (CW) and CW production facilities it possesses or that are located in any place under its jurisdiction or control, as well any CW it abandoned on the territory of another state. The CWC was opened for signature on January 13, 1993, and entered into force on April 29, 1997. As of January 2006, there are 175 states parties and 11 signatories (not yet ratified) to the CWC. There are 8 non-signatory states.

Choking agent

A chemical weapon which attacks lung tissue when inhaled leading to respiratory failure. Cannot be absorbed through the skin and generally do not cause external injuries. Examples are Chlorine and Phosgene.

Christian Identity (CI)

A radical sect of Christianity that teaches that white non-Jews are God's chosen race and that Jews are the offspring of Satan. It has inspired numerous extremist groups within the United States and influenced their violent acts and propaganda.

CIA (Central Intelligence Agency)

The agency tasked with coordinating the United State's intelligence activities and correlating, evaluating, and disseminating intelligence that affects national security. Created in 1947 with the signing of the National Security Act by President Truman, the CIA is an independent agency responsible to the president through the Director of Central Intelligence (DCI).

Command, control, communication and intelligence (C3I)

Command, control, communications, and intelligence systems are integrated combinations of military command information processing, communications network, and intelligence gathering subsystems (including surveillance, warning, and identification subsystems). These combined technologies are designed to provide timely and adequate data required to plan, direct, and control military forces and operations.

Compliance provisions

Enforcement provisions included in a treaty or legally binding agreement to ensure that parties abide by the requirements or restrictions set out in the treaty. Compliance provisions include inspection measures to confront state parties suspected of treaty violations and lists of sanctions that can be imposed on any state party that has violated its obligations.

Comprehensive Nuclear Test-Ban Treaty (CTBT)

Opened for signature in 1996 at the UN General Assembly, this international treaty prohibits all nuclear explosions. The treaty establishes the CTBT Organization (CTBTO) to verify compliance with the treaty through a global monitoring system once it enters into force. Entry into force is contingent on the ratification of 44 states with nuclear reactors on their territories. As of January 2006, of the 44 required, 11 have yet to ratify the treaty including the United States and China. India, Pakistan, and North Korea have not signed it yet.

Conference on Disarmament (CD)

Group of states formed in 1979 following the first Special Session on Disarmament of the UN General Assembly held in 1978. As of July 2005, the CD has 66 member states, with a further 37 having observer status. The CD reports to the General Assembly annually or more frequently as appropriate. Although the CD concerns itself with practically all issues involving multilateral arms control, it currently focuses its attention on the following issues: effective international arrangements to assure non-nuclear weapon states against the use or threat of use of nuclear weapons; prevention of an arms race in outer space; negotiations on a treaty banning the production of fissile material for nuclear weapons or other nuclear explosive devices; and transparency in conventional armaments production and transfer.

Confidence-Building Measures (CBMs)

Tools that adversarial states can use to reduce tensions and avert the possibility of military conflict. Such tools include communication agreements (e.g., "hot lines" or direct lines between capitals), constraints (e.g., demilitarized zones), transparency (e.g., data exchanges), and verification (e.g., on-site inspections) measures. CBMs normally precede the negotiation of formal arms control agreements or are added to arms control agreements to strengthen them.

Contamination

Undesired radioactive material that is deposited on the surface of or inside structures, areas, objects or people.

Containment structure

A gaslight shell or other enclosure around a nuclear reactor to confine fission products that otherwise might be released to the atmosphere in the event of an accident.

Convention on the Physical Protection of Nuclear Material

Provisions of this convention oblige parties to ensure that during international transport across their territory or on ships or aircraft under their jurisdiction, nuclear materials for peaceful purposes (plutonium, uranium (U-235, U-233 and irradiated fuel) are protected at the agreed levels. The convention also provides a framework for international cooperation on the protection, recovery, and return of stolen nuclear material and on the application of criminal sanctions against persons who commit crimes involving nuclear material. It opened for signature on March 3, 1980 and entered info force on February 8, 1987. As of September 2005, there are 115 parties (including Euratom) to the convention; in addition, 45 states have signed but not ratified the convention.

Conventional Armed Forces in Europe (CFE) Treaty

This treaty was opened for signature to a total of 23 North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) and Warsaw Pact states on November 19, 1990. It entered into force on November 9, 1992, and is of unlimited duration. It has since been adapted to accommodate the break-up of the Soviet Union and Czechoslovakia, raising its membership to 30 states. The treaty allows each side equal numbers of battle tanks, armored combat vehicles, artillery pieces, attack helicopters, and combat aircraft. The purpose of the treaty is threefold: to promote security and stability in Europe through verifiable lower levels of conventional armed forces; to eliminate disparities prejudicial to this objective; and to reduce the capability for launching surprise attacks initiating large-scale offensives.

Conventional forces

Armed troops that operate non-WMD weapons such as tanks, artillery, and tactical aircraft.

Conventional weapons

Weapons and military equipment, including aircraft, tanks, and artillery, that use non-nuclear explosives or kinetic energy to damage targets.

Coolant

A substance circulated through a nuclear reactor to remove or transfer heat. The most commonly used coolant in the United States is water. Other coolants include heavy water, air, carbon dioxide, helium, liquid sodium, and a sodium-potassium alloy.

Cooperative Treat Reduction (CTR)

A U.S. Department of Defense (DOD) program established in 1992 by the U.S. Congress, sponsored primarily by Senators Sam Nunn and Richard Lugar. This program remains the largest and most diverse U.S. program addressing the former Soviet weapons of mass destruction threats. The program has focused primarily on (1) destroying vehicles for delivering nuclear weapons, their launchers (such as silos and submarines), and their related facilities; (2) securing former Soviet nuclear weapons and their components; and (3) destroying Russian chemical weapons. The term is sometimes used generically to refer to all U.S. nonproliferation programs in the former Soviet Union, including those implemented by the U.S. Departments of Energy, Commerce, and State.

Coordinating Committee for Multilateral Export Controls (COCOM)

Based in Paris, this organization was established in 1949 to restrict the sale of goods to Warsaw Pact countries. Its 17 members were Japan and all the NATO states except Iceland. Following the end of the Cold War, many of COCOM's restrictions on Eastern Europe were lifted. COCOM ceased to exist in 1994, and in 1995 the organization was superceded by the Wassenaar Arrangement On Export Controls for Conventional Arms and Duel-Use Goods and Technologies.

Core

The central portion of a nuclear reactor containing the fuel elements, moderator, neutron poisons, and support structures.

Counterproliferation

Military efforts to combat proliferation, including the application of military power to protect forces and interests, intelligence collection, and analysis.

Crisis instability

A condition where small events or minor conflicts can cause very large disturbances or escalate to major conflicts within the international system.

Critical mass

The minimum amount of concentrated fissionable material required to sustain a chain reaction.

Cruise missile

An unmanned self-propelled guided vehicle that sustains flight through aerodynamic lift for most of its flight path. A cruise missile may deliver a conventional or nuclear warhead.

CTR (Cooperative Threat Reduction) Program

A U.S. Department of Defense (DOD) program established in 1992 by the U.S. Congress, sponsored primarily by Senators Sam Nunn and Richard Lugar. The program remains the largest and most diverse U.S. program addressing former Soviet weapons of mass destruction threats. The program has focused primarily on (1) destroying vehicles for delivering nuclear weapons, their launchers (such as silos and submarines), and their related facilities; (2) securing former Soviet nuclear weapons and their components; and (3) destroying Russian chemical weapons. The term is sometimes used generically to refer to all U.S. nonproliferation programs in the former Soviet Union, including those implemented by the U.S. Departments of Energy, Commerce, and State.

D

De-activate

To remove a weapon from operational status for an indefinite period. Used synonymously with "de-alert" in referring to nuclear missiles.

De-alert

To reduce the level of readiness to launch of nuclear weapons systems. Measures include removing nuclear warheads from missiles and storing the warheads separately from the missiles.

Decolonization

The process of granting independence to a territory that previously has been governed as a colony.

Decontamination

The reduction or removal of contaminating radioactive material from a structure, area, object or person. Decontamination may be accomplished by: 1) treating the surface to remove or decrease the contamination; 2) letting the material stand so that the radioactivity is decreased as a result of natural radioactive decay; or 3) covering the contamination to shield or attenuate the radiation emitted.

Defensive

An action taken or intended to protect or defend.

Deliver (a weapon)

To place a warhead or munition on its target.

Deterrence

The actions of a state or group of states to dissuade a potential adversary from initiating an attack or conflict by the threat of retaliation. Deterrence should credibly demonstrate to an adversary that the costs of an attack would be too great and would outweigh any potential gains.

Diffusion

A technique for uranium enrichment in which the lighter Uranium 235 isotopes in UF6 gas move through a porous barrier more rapidly than the heavier Uranium 238 isotopes.

Diversion

The clandestine removal or appropriation of imported materials or technologies for use in projects or in weapons programs that violate requirements agreed to between the importing and exporting parties on how the materials and technologies must be used.

DNA

Deoxyribonucleic acid. DNA molecules carry the genetic information necessary for the organization and functioning of most living cells and control the inheritance of characteristics.

Dual-use item

An item that has both civilian and military applications. For example, many of the precursor chemicals used in the manufacture of chemical weapons have legitimate civilian industrial uses, such as the production of pesticides or ink for ballpoint pens.

E

Eighteen-Nation Disarmament Committee (ENDC)

The predecessor to the U.N. Conference on Disarmament in Geneva, the ENDC existed from 1962-1968, and hosted most of the negotiations of the NPT text. It consisted of five Western countries, five Eastern (Soviet bloc) countries, and eight non-aligned (in neither the U.S. nor Soviet camp) countries, with the United States and Soviet Union as co-chairs.

Electromagnetic Pulse (EMP)

A sharp pulse of radio-frequency (long wavelength) radiation produced when an explosion occurs in an asymmetrical environment, especially at or near the earth's surface or at high altitudes. The intense electric and magnetic fields can damage unprotected electrical and electronic equipment over a large area. It is now thought that a single high-altitude blast over the U. S. could seriously disrupt the nation's communications system, and perhaps shut down the entire power grid. At present, however, there is no known way of providing complete protection against the effect.

Electron

An elementary particle with a negative charge and a mass of 1/1837 that of the proton. Electrons surround the positively charged nucleus and determine the chemical properties of the atom.

Emit

To send out.

Enriched uranium

Uranium with an increased concentration of the isotope U-235. Natural uranium contains 0.7 percent U-235, whereas nuclear weapons typically require uranium enriched to 90 percent or more U-235. Nuclear power plant fuel typically uses uranium enriched to 3-5 percent U-235, material that is not sufficiently enriched to be used for nuclear weapons.

Entry into force

The moment at which all provisions of a treaty are legally binding on its parties. Every treaty specifies preconditions for its entry into force. For example, the NPT specified that it would enter into force after the United States, Great Britain, and the Soviet Union (the Depository governments) and 40 other countries ratified the Treaty, an event that occurred on March 5, 1970.

EPA (Environmental Protection Agency)

The EPA is a federal body whose mission is "to protect human health and to safeguard the natural environment-air, water, and land-upon which life depends." The EPA provides leadership in the nation's environmental science research, education, and assessment efforts and can provide assistance in the event of a CBW terrorism incident.

Equine encephalitis

A member of the Alphavirus family transmitted by mosquitoes that generally infects horses but can cause epidemics in humans. The virus can be weaponized and dispersed through aerosol, causing infection if inhaled. Infection is manifested by fever, headache, sore throat, vomiting, and muscle aches. Less than four percent of victims later develop encephalitis (inflammation of the brain).

European Atomic Energy Community

Launched in 1958 to facilitate the development of nuclear energy for peaceful purposes within the European Community.

Export control arrangements

Treaties, laws, or agreements established to restrict the sale of goods to certain countries or to ensure that safeguards or end-use guarantees are applied to the export and sale of sensitive technologies and materials.

Extended deterrence

Also known as a "nuclear umbrella", this process involves security derived through military protection from a nuclear power. A country protected from potential enemies by the nuclear weapons of an ally is said to be under extended deterrence. Through extended deterrence, countries allied with a nuclear weapon state hope to deter or avoid nuclear attack or threat from other countries.

F

Fallout

The process of the descent to the earth's surface of particles contaminated with radioactive material from a radioactive cloud. The term is also applied in a collective sense to the contaminated particulate matter itself. The early (or local) fallout is defined, somewhat arbitrarily, as those particles which reach the earth within 24 hours after a nuclear explosion. The delayed (or worldwide) fallout consists of the smaller particles which ascend into the upper troposphere and stratosphere, to be carried by winds to all parts of the earth. The delayed fallout is brought to earth, mainly by rain and snow, over extended periods ranging from months to years.

Fascism

A political philosophy, movement, or regime that exalts a collective or group above the individual and that stands for a centralized autocratic government headed by a dictatorial leader, severe economic and social regimentation, and forcible suppression of opposition.

FBI (Federal Bureau of Investigation)

The principal investigative arm of the United States Department of Justice. The mission of the FBI is to uphold the law through the investigation of violations of federal criminal law; to protect the United States from foreign intelligence and terrorist activities; to provide leadership and law enforcement assistance to federal, state, local, and international agencies; and to perform these responsibilities in a manner that is responsive to the needs of the public and is faithful to the Constitution of the United States.

FEMA (Federal Emergency Management Agency)

The U.S. federal agency in charge of helping people before and after a disaster. It is an executive branch agency that can be called upon to help when the president declares a disaster. The governor of the state must request assistance from the president before FEMA can respond. Disasters are "declared" after hurricanes, tornadoes, floods, earthquakes, or other similar events strike a community. In March 2003, FEMA became part of the Department of Homeland Security.

First responders

Emergency personnel who are the first to arrive at the scene of an incident, including firefighters, police, and emergency medical technicians (EMTs). In most cases, they will be the local authorities in the affected area.

First strike

The launch of a surprise attack to considerably weaken or destroy an adversary's military installations or nuclear forces and thus severely reduce its ability to attack or retaliate.

Fissile material

Fissionable material the nuclei of which are able to be split by neutrons of various speeds. Uranium-233, Uranium-235, and Plutonium-239 are all fissile materials. Fissile materials undergo fission more easily than other fissionable materials, and are more desirable for most reactor types and essential for nuclear explosives.

Fissile Material Cut-off Treaty

Treaty currently under discussion in the Conference on Disarmament (CD) to end the production of weapons-usable fissile material (highly enriched uranium and plutonium) for nuclear weapons.

Fission

The splitting of the nucleus of a heavy atom into two lighter nuclei. It is accompanied by the release of neutrons, X-rays, gamma rays, and kinetic energy of the fission products. It is usually triggered by collision with a neutron, but in some cases can be induced by protons and other particles or gamma rays.

Fission bomb

A nuclear bomb based on the concept of releasing energy through the fission (splitting) of heavy elements such as Uranium-235 or Plutonium-239.

Fission products

Nuclei formed by the fission of heavy elements. They are of medium atomic weight and almost all are radioactive. Examples: strontium-90, cesium-137.

Fleet ballistic missile submarine (SSBN)

A nuclear-powered submarine designed to deliver ballistic missile attacks against assigned targets from either a submerged or surfaced condition, which is designated as "SSBN."

Force structure

The configuration of a country's nuclear or conventional forces. In the United States and Russia, nuclear forces are structured in a triad, as nuclear warheads are deployed on bombers, land-based, and sea-based missiles.

Fuel cycle

The series of steps involved in supplying fuel for nuclear power reactors. It can include mining, milling, isotopic enrichment, fabrication of fuel elements, use in a reactor, chemical reprocessing to recover the fissionable material remaining in the spent fuel, re-enrichment of the fuel material, re-fabrication into new fuel elements, and waste disposal.

Full-scope safeguards

Safeguards that apply to all nuclear materials that could readily contribute to the development of nuclear weapons in a non-nuclear weapon state.

Fundamentalism

An approach to religious observance that favors a literalist or extreme interpretation of, and strict adherence to, a religion's core texts. A common theme is the attempt to return to the simplicity of belief and interpretation which is believed to reflect the original character of the religion's founder or founders. This approach is often combined with religiously justified political agendas which because they are divinely inspired, are not subject to negotiation or discussion. Fundamentalism is not specific to any single religion and fundamentalist movements are found within Christianity, Hinduism, Islam and Judaism.

Fusion

Nuclear fusion is a type of nuclear reaction in which two atomic nuclei combine to form a heavier nucleus, releasing energy. For a fusion reaction to take place, the nuclei, which are positively charged, must have enough kinetic energy to overcome their electrostatic force of repulsion. Thermonuclear fusion of deuterium and tritium will produce a helium nucleus and an energetic neutron. This is one basis of the Hydrogen Bomb, which employs a brief, uncontrolled thermonuclear fusion reaction. A great effort is now under way to harness thermonuclear fusion as a source of power.

Fusion bomb

A nuclear bomb based on the fusing or burning of light elements. Fusion bombs use fission bombs for ignition.

G

Gamma radiation

High-energy, short wavelength, electromagnetic radiation emitted from the nucleus. Gamma radiation frequently accompanies alpha and beta emissions and always accompanies fission. Gamma rays are very penetrating and are best stopped or shielded by dense materials, such as lead or depleted uranium. Gamma rays are similar to x-rays.

Garcia Robles, Alfonso

Alfonso Garcia Robles was one of the major architects of the establishment of the NWFZ in Latin America and the Caribbean. His diplomatic skills contributed to the successful negotiation of the Treaty of Tlatelolco. Garcia Robles also played a central role in the work to promote general disarmament in the UN organizations. He was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 1982 because of his outstanding work in the field of disarmament.

Geneva Protocol

Formally known as the "Protocol for the Prohibition of the Use in War of Asphyxiating, Poisonous or Other Gases, and of Bacteriological Methods of Warfare," this protocol prohibits the use in war of asphyxiating, poisonous, or other gases, and bans bacteriological warfare. It was opened for signature on June 17, 1925. As of April 2005, there were 133 parties to the protocol; in addition, 96 states have signed but not ratified the protocol. Most of the parties in joining the Geneva Protocol made reservations to the effect that they would abide by the terms of the protocol as long as other states did not resort to the use of chemical weapons. There are 42 states that have submitted such reservations.

G-8 Global Partnership Against the Spread of WMD

The G-8 Global Partnership was initiated at the 2002 G-8 summit at Kananaskis, and is intended to secure, dismantle and dispose of weapons of mass destruction and related materials and facilities in the former Soviet Union. Under the Global Partnership, the G-8 states, in addition to a number of other supporting states, including Australia, Belgium, the Czech Republic, Denmark, Finland, Ireland, the Netherlands, New Zealand, Norway, Poland, Sweden, Switzerland, and South Korea, have pledged to provide over $20 billion over ten years to accomplish these efforts.

Ground Based Interceptor (GBI)

The missile intercept of the proposed U.S. National Missile Defense (NMD) system, the GBI will intercept incoming ballistic missile warheads outside the earth's atmosphere (exo-atmospheric) and collide with the incoming ballistic missile, thereby destroying the missile. The NMD Battle Management, Command, Control, and Communication (BMC3) will transmit information on the location of the incoming missile to the GBI during its flight. The GBI would consist of a multi-stage solid propellant booster and an exo-atmospheric kill vehicle.

Guerrilla warfare

A method of warfare characterized by irregular forces employing unorthodox military tactics to fight small-scale, limited actions against orthodox civil and military forces. Sometimes regarded as terrorism by governments.

Gun-type weapon

A device in which two or more pieces of fissionable material, each less than a critical mass, are brought together very rapidly so as to form a supercritical mass which can explode as the result of a rapidly expanding fission chain reaction.

H

Half-life

The time in which one half of the atoms of a particular radioactive substance disintegrates. Measured half-lives vary from millionths of a second to billions of years. Also called physical or radiological half-life.

HEU deal

The United States and Russia concluded the Highly Enriched Uranium (HEU) Purchase Agreement in 1993. Under the terms of the agreement, the United States will purchase 500 tons of HEU over a 20-year period from the former Soviet weapons program, dilute it to low-enriched uranium, and sell it as fuel for nuclear power plants on the commercial market. The HEU deal is also referred to as the "Megatons to Megawatts" program.

High alert

The state of readiness of nuclear forces sufficient to launch an immediate attack.

Highly enriched uranium (HEU)

Uranium in which the naturally occurring Uranium (U)-235 isotope (0.7 percent in natural uranium) is increased to 20 percent U-235 or above. In HEU used in nuclear weapons, the U-235 isotope is usually increased to 90 percent or more. HEU is used in nuclear weapons and in some types of research and submarine propulsion reactors.

Homeland Security (Department of)

New Cabinet-level Federal Agency created in the wake of the September 11 terrorist attacks. The Department's purpose is to consolidate all the activities of all pre-existing non-military government agencies concerned with border control, prevention of terrorism and emergency response.

Horizontal proliferation

The spread of weapons of mass destruction to states that have not previously possessed them.

Hydrogen bomb

A weapon that uses nuclear fusion to provide explosive power. Also referred to as a thermonuclear bomb.

I

Improvised nuclear device (IND)

A weapon that uses a simple, untested design to attempt to create a nuclear explosion.

Incentives

A motive or incitement to action. Positive incentives refer to rewards offered in exchange for a certain course of action. Negative incentives refer to punishments threatened if a forbidden course of action is taken.

Information Circular 26 (INFCIRC/26)

The first International Atomic Energy Agency safeguards system applicable to reactors rated less than 100 thermal megawatts, approved by the IAEA Board of Governors on January 31, 1961. It was revised in June 1963 to cover reactors of any size.

Information Circular 66 (INFCIRC/66)

The model safeguards agreement approved by the International Atomic Energy Agency in February 1965 to safeguard individual nuclear facilities. The guidelines were later revised to include reprocessing and fuel fabrication plants. It was most widely employed prior to the advent of nonproliferation treaties in the 1960s that required full-scope safeguards.

Information Circular 153 (INFCIRC/153)

An International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) document entitled "The Structure and Content of Agreements between the Agency and States Required in Connection with the Treaty on the Nonproliferation of Nuclear Weapons (NPT)." Established by the IAEA in April 1970 after the NPT entered into force. The document created the full-scope safeguards system whereby any non-nuclear weapon state party to the NPT agrees to establish and maintain a system of accounting and control of all nuclear material under its jurisdiction. Accordingly, non-nuclear weapon states who are party to or who have signed but not ratified the NPT must conclude a safeguards agreement with the IAEA.

Information Circular 540 (INFCIRC/540)

A document approved by the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) in May 1997, called the "Model Protocol Additional to the Agreement(s) between States(s) and the International Atomic Energy Agency for the Application of Safeguards," which supplements the INFCIRC/153. The Model Protocol grants IAEA inspectors additional physical access to sites of IAEA member states where nuclear material is or could be present, expands the use of unannounced inspections, and allows for collection of environmental samples. The provisions in the protocol are also known as the "Program 93+2".

Intelligence

Information and data collected by a government to learn about other states' capabilities and intentions.

Intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM)

Ballistic missiles with ranges greater than 5,500 kilometers (3,400 miles).

Intermediate-Range Nuclear Forces (INF) Treaty

This treaty between the United States and the former Soviet Union, signed on December 8, 1987, entered into force on June 1, 1988. It aimed to eliminate and ban all ground-launched ballistic and cruise missiles with a range of 300-3,400 miles (500-5,500 kilometers). The treaty required the United States and the Soviet Union to conduct inspections at each other's sites during the elimination of treaty-limited items (TLI). By May 1991, all intermediate-range and shorter-range missiles, launchers, related support equipment, and support structures were eliminated.

International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA)

Founded in 1957 and based in Vienna, Austria, the IAEA is an autonomous international organization under the United Nations with 139 member states, as of January 2006. The IAEA is charged both with the control of nuclear technology to prevent nuclear weapons proliferation and the development of nuclear energy for peaceful purposes. Article III of the nuclear Nonproliferation Treaty (NPT) requires non-nuclear weapon states party to the NPT to accept safeguards administered by the IAEA. The 2005 Nobel Peace Prize was awarded to the IAEA.

International Code of Conduct against Ballistic Missiles (ICOC)

A legally non-binding arrangement that was launched with the objective of preventing and curbing the proliferation of ballistic missile systems capable of delivering weapons of mass destruction. States adhering to the ICOC agree not to assist ballistic missile programs in countries suspected of developing biological, chemical, and nuclear weapons, as well as exhibit "restraint" in the development and testing of their own. As of January 2006, there are 123 subscribing states.

International Convention on the Suppression of Acts of Nuclear Terrorism

The General Assembly adopted the Nuclear Terrorism Convention in April 2005. It opened for signature on September 14, 2005. The Convention addresses the unlawful possession or use of nuclear devices or materials by non-state actors. The convention calls on states to develop a legal framework criminalizing offenses related to nuclear terrorism, as well as for international cooperation in nuclear terrorism investigations and prosecutions.  The Convention will enter into force after 22 countries have ratified the Convention. As of September 2005, 89 countries have signed the Convention. 

International Science and Technology Center (ISTC)

Established in 1992 by the European Community (now the EU), Japan, the Russian Federation, and the United States, the Moscow-based ISTC serves as a clearinghouse for developing, approving, financing, and monitoring projects aimed at engaging weapon scientists and engineers from the NIS in peaceful civilian science and technology activities. Through their projects, the ISTC contributes to ongoing efforts to stem the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction. Their larger goals include reinforcing the NIS countries' transition to a market-based economy responsive to civilian needs.

Irradiate

To expose to some form of radiation.

Isotope

Any two or more forms of an element having identical or very closely related chemical properties and the same atomic number (same number of protons in their nuclei) but different atomic weights or mass numbers (different number of neutrons in their nuclei). Uranium-238 and unraium-235 are isotopes of uranium.

J

Joint Declaration on the Denuclearization of the Korean Peninsula

In November 1991, the South Korean president declared that the Republic of Korea would not produce, possess, store, deploy, or use nuclear weapons. This declaration was a response to the decision by the United States to withdraw most of the tactical nuclear weapons deployed on the Korean Peninsula in September 1991. On January 20, 1992, both North and South Korea signed the Joint Declaration on the Denuclearization of the Korean Peninsula, whereby both states agree not to "test, produce, receive, possess, store, deploy or use nuclear weapon; to use nuclear energy only for peaceful purposes; and not to possess facilities for nuclear reprocessing or uranium enrichment." The declaration entered into force on February 19, 1992. In order to implement the declaration, the two Koreas established the South-North Joint Nuclear Control Commission (JNCC). However, as the result of revelations about North Korea's nuclear program and failure to reach agreement on the reciprocal inspection regime, implementation has been stalled since 1993.

K

Kiloton

The energy of a nuclear explosion that is equivalent to the explosion of 1,000 tons of trinitrotoluene (TNT) explosive.

Korean Peninsula Energy Development Organization (KEDO)

KEDO was established in early 1995 to implement the 1994 Agreed Framework between the DPRK and United States. Its primary responsibilities were to finance and supply the agreed to light-water reactor (LWR) project, to provide heavy oil to the DPRK to meet its interim heating and electricity-generation needs, and to provide for the implementation of other measures required under the terms of the Agreed Framework. Thirteen states are members: Argentina, Australia, Canada, Chile, the Czech Republic, the European Union, Indonesia, Japan, New Zealand, Poland, the Republic of Korea, the United States and Uzbekistan. However, due to DPRK's nuclear weapons development in violation of the 1994 Agreed Framework, the KEDO project has been suspended since November 2003.

L

Land-based missile systems

Missile systems located on land in hardened bunkers and underground silos or on mobile launchers, which are more vulnerable to first-strike attacks. The mobile land-based missile systems are less vulnerable to first-strike because the positions of the missiles can be changed.

Latin American Nuclear-Weapon-Free Zone

See Treaty of Tlatelolco below.

Layered BMD system

A ballistic missile defense system that consists of several sets of weapons that operate at different phases in the trajectory of a ballistic missile. Thus, there could be a first layer (e.g., boost phase) of defense with remaining targets passed on to succeeding layers (e.g., midcourse and terminal).

Leftist

Favoring or tending toward the political ideologies of socialism, communism, or Marxism. At the extreme it tends towards authoritarianism. See Rightist.

Leaderless resistance

An approach to the organization of anti-state activity that seeks to avoid the weaknesses of structured hierarchical groups. Small units, often referred to as cells, organize independently around an organizing ideology which indicates the ultimate goals and preferred methods of the wider campaign. There may be individuals who are recognized as inspiring these cells through writings or speeches. However these individuals exercise no control over the cells and there is little or no formal contact between individual cells. An example is the Earth Liberation Front which will accept responsibility for direct actions such as arson attacks if they meet a publicized set of criteria.

Lethal dose

The dose of radiation expected to cause death to an exposed population within 30 days to 50 percent of those exposed.

Light-water reactor

A term used to describe reactors using ordinary water as coolant, including boiling water reactors (BWRs) and pressurized water reactors (PWRs), the most common types used in the United States.

Limited Test Ban Treaty

Another name for the Partial Test Ban Treaty.

Lisbon Protocol

The protocol was opened for signature in 1992 by Belarus, Kazakhstan, Russia and Ukraine, it made these states parties to the 1991 Strategic Arms Reduction Treaty as successors to the former Soviet Union. Belarus, Kazakhstan, and Ukraine also committed themselves in this protocol to adhere to the nuclear Nonproliferation Treaty (NPT) as non-nuclear weapon states.

Low enriched uranium (LEU)

Uranium in which the naturally occurring U235 isotope is increased, to less than 20 percent and usually between two and four percent. LEU is used in nuclear fuel for reactors using natural (light) water as a moderator and coolant.

M

Marxism

A doctrine originally based on the ideas of Karl Marx and Friedrich Engels. This ideology is a complex concept that deals most directly with economic modes of production but has been extended to almost every political and social domain. Marxism describes existing institutions of private ownership and capitalism as exploiting the working classes and predicts the decline of capitalism and the emergence of communal ownership and some form of worker control. Marxism formed the basis for Communism in the 20th century.

Material protection, control, and accountability (MPC&A)

An integrated system of physical protection, material accounting, and material control measures designed to deter, prevent, detect, and respond to unauthorized possession, use, or sabotage of nuclear materials. The U.S. Department of Energy's MPC&A program is implemented in cooperation with the Russian Atomic Energy Ministry and other agencies to install and upgrade physical protection systems at the nuclear energy and weapons production facilities in the successor states of the former Soviet Union.

Megaton (MT)

The energy equivalent released by 1,000 kilotons (1,000,000 tons) of trinitrotoluene (TNT) explosive. Typically used as the unit of measurement to express the amount of energy released by a nuclear bomb.

Mid-phase (or midcourse phase)

That part of the ballistic missile's flight when the re-entry vehicle and warhead travel freely through space outside the atmosphere. For an ICBM, this stage lasts about 20 minutes.

Middle East Zone Free of Nuclear Weapons as well as Other Weapons of Mass Destruction

The concept of a NWFZ in the Middle East was first introduced by Iran and Egypt in 1974. In April 1990, Egyptian President Hosni Mubarak proposed the establishment in the Middle East of a zone free of all types of weapons of mass destruction. Egypt submitted this proposal to the United Nations on April 16, 1990. Some Arab nations, however, expressed concern that the initiative might dilute Arab interests by allowing Israel to shift attention from nuclear weapons to other weapons of mass destruction. By the end of 1994, Egypt obtained support from Syria and Saudi Arabia for its position favoring the creation of the WMDFZ as an integral part of the peace process.

In the "Resolution on the Middle East" adopted at the 1995 NPT Review Conference, the concept of a Middle East Zone Free of WMD was endorsed by all NPT state parties.

Missile Technology Control Regime (MTCR)

An informal arrangement established in April 1987 by an association of states concerned about the proliferation of missile equipments and technology relevant to missiles that are capable of carrying a payload over 500 kilograms over a 300-kilometer range. Though originally intended to restrict the proliferation of nuclear-capable missiles, the regime has been expanded to cover unmanned delivery systems capable of carrying all types of WMD. As of January 2006, the membership includes 34 states, while four others have committed to comply with MTCR guidelines.

Multiple independent reentry vehicles (MIRV)

An offensive ballistic missile system with multiple warheads, each of which can strike a separate target and can be launched by a single booster rocket.

Multilateral

Negotiations, agreements or treaties that effect or are between three or more parties, countries, etc.

Multilateral Approaches to the Nuclear Fuel Cycle

IAEA Director General, Mohamed Elbaradei suggested that wide dissemination of the most proliferation sensitive parts of the nuclear fuel cycle could be the "Achilles' heel" of the nuclear nonproliferation regime.  Appointed by the Director General in June 2004, the expert group issued a commissioned report including proposals for improved controls such as possible multilateral oversight arrangements of the nuclear fuel cycle. 

Mutual deterrence

Deterrence between two adversaries.

N

National missile defense (NMD)

A ground-based anti-ballistic missile system designed to protect a country against ballistic missile threats. The proposed U.S. system consists of four elements: ground-based interceptors (GBI); a ground-based radar (GBR); a battle management command, control, and communications (BM/C 3) system; and a constellation of Space and Missile Tracking System (SMTS) satellites.

National technical means (NTMs)

Satellites, aircraft, and electronic and seismic monitoring devices used to survey the activities of other states, including military movements and treaty compliance.

Nationalist-separatist

People who act to achieve sovereignty for part of an existing state by creating a separate state for the group they identify as their nation. Nationalist-separatists believe that groups of people possess characteristics, such as a common language and culture, which distinguishes them from other groups and make them a distinct nation. They assert that each nation deserves to control its own destiny and territory, sometimes, arguing for the use of armed conflict to achieve this aim.

Negative security assurances

A pledge by a nuclear weapon state that it will not use nuclear weapons against a non-nuclear weapon state. Some states have policies that allow for the use of nuclear weapons if attacked with other WMD by a non-nuclear weapon state.

Neo-Fascists

A term used to refer to post-World War II adherents to fascist ideology. The fascist ideology is characterized by authoritarian rule and extreme nationalism. Fascists usually hold a belief that the nation has declined from a mythic past as a result of impurities introduced by an enemy (often referring to another racial group) that must be defeated. Fascism came to prominence in various European countries between the two world wars and its manifestation in Germany and Italy was largely responsible for the Second World War. Neo-fascists who subscribe to the particular doctrine of National Socialism are known as Neo-Nazis. (see Neo-Nazis)

Neo-Nazis

Label given to various right-wing groups that, since 1945, have espoused the ideology of National Socialism (Nazism) as practiced by Adolf Hitler and the Third Reich in Germany from 1933 to 1945. This ideology is based on an extreme form of nationalism, anti-Semitism, and white supremacy and tends to advocate totalitarianism and violence.

Nerve agents

Highly toxic organophosphate compounds, similar to some insecticides, first developed by German scientists in the 1930s. The agents in this category bind with the body's enzymes and cause chemical imbalances within the body's nervous system leading to respiratory failure. Can be inhaled or absorbed through the skin and even extremely small doses can cause death in minutes (see sarin, VX).

Neutron

An uncharged elementary particle with a mass slightly greater than that of the proton, and found in the nucleus of every atom heavier than hydrogen.

New Agenda Coalition

In June 1998, the foreign ministers from Brazil, Egypt, Ireland, Mexico, New Zealand, Slovenia, South Africa, and Sweden issued a statement calling for a new nuclear disarmament agenda. (Slovenia later withdrew from the NAC.) The NAC calls for the five nuclear weapons states and the three nuclear-capable states to make an unequivocal commitment to nuclear disarmament and to begin multilateral negotiations that would lead to the elimination of nuclear weapons through a Nuclear Weapons Convention.

No First Use

A pledge on the part of a nuclear weapons state not to be the first party to use nuclear weapons in a conflict or crises. No-first-use guarantees may be made in unilateral statements, bilateral or multilateral agreements, or as part of a treaty creating a nuclear-weapons-free zone.

Nodong

Name for a series of theater ballistic missiles being developed by North Korea.

Non-nuclear weapon state (NNWS)

Under the nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty, these are states that had not detonated a nuclear device prior to January 1, 1967, (that is, all states other than the United States, the Soviet Union [now Russia], the United Kingdom, France, and China).

Non-party

A state or entity that is not participating in an agreement, convention, or treaty.

Nonproliferation

Prevention of the spread of weapons of mass destruction.

Nonproliferation Treaty (NPT)

See the Treaty on Non-proliferation of Nuclear Weapons.

North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO)

The North Atlantic Treaty Organization is a collective security agreement meant to deter Soviet aggression. It was signed in Washington on April 4, 1949. The treaty created an alliance of 10 European and two North American independent nations committed to each other's defense. As of April 2005, NATO has 26 members. The member countries have committed to maintaining and developing their defense capabilities, to consulting on issues of mutual security concern, and to the principle of collective self-defense. NATO's members are Belgium, Bulgaria, Canada, the Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania  Luxembourg, the Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Turkey, the United Kingdom and the United States.

Northern Ireland "troubles"

Refers to the period of violent sectarian conflict in Northern Ireland between Irish Catholic Republicans and the Protestant Loyalists and the British military. The "Troubles" began with the Civil Rights marches in the late 1960s and lasted until the political resolution set out in the 1998 Good Friday Agreement. During that time, more than 3,000 people, mostly civilians, were killed.

Nuclear energy

The energy liberated by a nuclear reaction (fission or fusion) or by radioactive decay.

Nuclear explosive device

Nuclear explosive device means any nuclear weapon or other explosive device capable of releasing nuclear energy, irrespective of the purpose for which it could be used. The term includes such a weapon or device in unassembled and partly assembled forms, but does not include the means of transport or delivery of such a weapon or device if separable from and not an indivisible part of it.

Nuclear installation

Nuclear installation means a nuclear-power reactor (including subcritical and critical assemblies), a nuclear research reactor, a critical facility, a conversion plant, a fabrication plant, a reprocessing plant, an isotope separation plant, a separate storage installation, and any other installation or location in or at which fresh or irradiated nuclear material or significant quantities of radioactive materials are present.

Nuclear Posture Review

Mandated by the United States Congress, the Department of Defense conducts a comprehensive Nuclear Posture Review to lay out the direction for U.S. nuclear force over the next five to ten years. To date,  the United States completed Nuclear Posture Reviews in 1994 and 2001. The Bush administration released the latest Nuclear Posture Review in January 2002 stating U.S. nuclear policy and strategy in the post-Cold War era. The Review introduces a new Triad comprised of 1) offensive strike powers both nuclear and non-nuclear, 2) active and passive defense, and 3) a revitalized defense infrastructure to counter emerging threats. The NPR also discusses the proposal to reduce operationally deployed strategic nuclear weapons  to a level between 1,700 - 2,200 by the year 2012. 

Nuclear power plant

An electrical generating facility using a nuclear reactor as its heat source to provide steam to a turbine generator.

Nuclear reactor

A device in which nuclear fission may be sustained and controlled in a self-supporting nuclear reaction. The varieties are many, but all incorporate certain features, including fissionable material or fuel, a moderating material (unless the reactor is operated on fast neutrons), a reflector to conserve escaping neutrons, provisions of removal of heat, measuring and controlling instruments, and protective devices. The reactor is the heart of a nuclear power plant.

Nuclear weapon

A device that releases nuclear energy in an explosive manner as the result of nuclear chain reactions involving the fission or fusion or both, of atomic nuclei.

Nuclear-Weapon-Free Country

Several countries have declared their nuclear-weapon-free status. However, Mongolia's single state nuclear free status is the only one which was endorsed by the United Nations General Assembly. For example, New Zealand established a Nuclear Free Zone Act. Japan also has the three non-nuclear principles, but they are not legally binding.

Nuclear-Weapon-Free Southern Hemisphere and Adjacent Areas

Current existing nuclear-weapon-free zones are all located in the Southern Hemisphere. Since 1996, the United Nations General Assembly has adopted a resolution calling for the creation of a Nuclear-Weapon-Free Southern Hemisphere and adjacent areas.

Nuclear-Weapon-Free Status of Mongolia

UN General Assembly Resolution 3261 adopted on December 9, 1974, recognized the possibility that a single-state nuclear-weapon-free zone could be established. The Mongolian government declared itself a single-state nuclear-weapon-free zone at the 47th session of the UN General Assembly in 1992. The 55th session of the UN General Assembly (2000) adopted Resolution 55/33S on "Mongolia's international security and nuclear weapon free status." Like other existing NWFZs, Mongolia's single-state NWFZ is recognized internationally and contains verification and compliance mechanisms. Although the Law of Mongolia on its NWFZ status provides for verification and compliance mechanisms, the only mechanisms that have been established are Mongolia's comprehensive safeguards agreement with the IAEA and the additional protocol to that agreement.

Nuclear-Weapon-Free Zone (NWFZ)

A geographical area in which nuclear weapons are not allowed to be built, possessed, transferred, deployed, or tested.

Nuclear-Weapon-Free Zone Protocol

Protocols to NWFZs provide for the obligations and rights of non-parties to the zone and of the nuclear weapon states with reference to those states that are party to the NWFZ and the region covered. Protocols may include assurances by the NWS not to use or threaten to use nuclear weapons against contracting parties within a NWFZ.

Nuclear Suppliers Group (NSG)

A group of states that cooperate to ensure that nuclear exports are made only under appropriate safeguards, physical protection, nonproliferation conditions, and other appropriate constraints. It first met in 1975 in London. As of January 2006, the NSG has 45 members.

Nuclear umbrella

Also known as extended deterrence, the term describes security derived through military protection from a nuclear power. A country protected from potential enemies by the nuclear weapons of an ally is said to be under a nuclear umbrella. By coming under a nuclear umbrella, countries allied with a nuclear weapon state hope to deter nuclear attack or threat from other countries.

Nuclear use doctrine

The fundamental principles by which military forces or political leaders guide their decisions regarding the use of nuclear weapons.

Nuclear weapon

A device that releases nuclear energy in an explosive manner as the result of nuclear chain reactions involving the fission or fusion or both, of atomic nuclei.

Nuclear weapon states

As defined by Article IX, paragraph 3 of the nuclear Nonproliferation Treaty, the five states that detonated a nuclear device prior to January 1, 1967 (China, France, the Soviet Union, the United Kingdom, and the United States.

Nuclear weapon-cable states

Those states not party to the nuclear Nonproliferation Treaty but which have the ability to build nuclear weapons (India, Israel, and Pakistan).

Nucleus

The small, central, positively charged region of an atom. Except for the nucleus of ordinary hydrogen, which has only a proton, all atomic nuclei contain both protons and neutrons. The number of protons determines the total positive charge or atomic number. This number is the same for all the atomic nuclei or a given chemical element. The total number of neutrons and protons is called the mass number.

O

Offensive (research, weapon)

Meant for use in instigating an attack, as opposed to defending against an attack.

Organization for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons (OPCW)

Based in The Hague, the Netherlands, the OPCW is responsible for implementing the Chemical Weapons Convention (CWC). All countries ratifying the CWC become states parties to the CWC and make up the membership of the OPCW. It meets annually and in special sessions when necessary.

Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe (OSCE)

Created in 1975 as the Conference on Security and Cooperation in Europe (CSCE) as part of the Helsinki negotiations between the United States and the Soviet Union. The OSCE is composed of most NATO and former Warsaw Pact nations, including the United States, Canada, and Russia. Its purpose is to guarantee European security and human rights. As of January 2006, 55 states were participating.

Organization of African Unity (OAU)\African Union

The OAU was established to promote the unity of African countries in 1963. At the first summit of the Organization of African Unity in Cairo in July 1964, the African Heads of State or Government called for a treaty declaring Africa free of nuclear weapons. The OAU was transformed into the African Union on May 26, 2001.

Organization of American States (OAS)

Established in 1948, the OAS embodies the commitment of the nations in the Americas to pursue common goals such as enhanced security, democracy, and human rights. The OAS considers the Treaty of Tlatelolco as a measure to enhance regional as well as global security.

Organophosphate insecticides

Insecticides that contain phosphorus compounds. These substances are structurally similar to nerve agents used as chemical weapons such as sarin, and affect the body's nervous system.

Outer Space Treaty

The "Treaty on Principles Governing the Activities of States in the Exploration and use of Outer Space, Including the Moon and other Celestial Bodies" prohibits the placement of WMD in orbit around the earth, on the moon or any other celestial body, or otherwise in outer space. The treaty also stipulates that the exploration and use of outer space be carried out for the benefit and in the interest of all countries, and that the moon and other celestial bodies are to be used exclusively for peaceful purposes. It was opened for signature on January 27, 1967, and entered into force on October 10, 1967. As of April 2005, there were 98 parties to the treaty; in addition, 27 states have signed but not ratified the treaty.

P

P-5

The five permanent members of the United Nations Security Council (which are also the five NWS under the NPT): China, France, Russian Federation, the United Kingdom, and the United States.

Partial Test Ban Treaty (PTBT)

Also known as the Limited Test Ban Treaty (LTBT) or the Moscow Treaty, the "Treaty Banning Nuclear Weapons Tests in the Atmosphere, in Outer Space and Under Water" prohibits nuclear weapons tests "or any other nuclear explosion" in the atmosphere, in outer space, and under water. While not banning tests underground, the treaty does prohibit nuclear explosions in this environment if they cause "radioactive debris to be present outside the territorial limits of the State under whose jurisdiction or control" the explosions were conducted. The treaty is of unlimited duration and, as of April 2005, has 131 parties.

Party

A person, group or state, that agrees to abide by the requirements of an agreement or a treaty.

Passive defenses

Passive defenses are measures that reduce the impact of a WMD attack once it has occurred. Two well-known examples of passive defenses are the use of protective clothing to reduce the impact of chemical weapons and the use of inoculations to reduce the impact of biological weapons.

Pathogen

An agent that causes disease, such as a bacterium or virus.

Peaceful Nuclear Explosion (PNE)

Nuclear explosions carried out for non-military purposes, such as the construction of harbors or canals. PNEs are technically indistinguishable from nuclear explosions of a military nature. Although Article V of the NPT allows for PNEs, no significant peaceful benefits have been discovered. In the Final Document of the 2000 NPT Review Conference, the States party agreed that Article V of the NPT is to be interpreted in light of the Comprehensive Test Ban Treaty, which will ban all nuclear explosions, including PNEs, once it enters into force.

Peaceful Nuclear Explosion Treaty (PNET)

"The Treaty between the United States and the U.S.S.R. on Underground Nuclear Explosions for Peaceful Purposes," was signed in May 1976. The treaty governs all nuclear explosions conducted outside of nuclear test sites specifically named in the Threshold Test Ban Treaty. The PNET entered into force in December 1990. Many of its provisions were superseded by the Comprehensive Test Ban Treaty, which bans all nuclear explosions.

Persistent

In the context of chemical agents, the ability to remain in liquid form without evaporating for some length of time at normal temperatures and pressures.

Plutonium (Pu)

A transuranic element produced when uranium is irradiated in a reactor. It is used primarily in nuclear weapons and, along with uranium, in mixed-oxide (MOX) fuel. Plutonium-239 is the most suitable isotope for use in nuclear weapons.

Positive security assurances

Guarantees by nuclear weapon states that they will assist any non-nuclear weapon state that is the target of nuclear aggression or is threatened by such aggression.

Precursor

Any chemical reactant which takes part at any stage in the production by whatever method of a toxic chemical. This includes any key component of a binary or multi-component chemical system.

Precursor chemical

A chemical that can be chemically combined with another substance to form a chemical warfare agent. Most precursors controlled through nonproliferation initiatives also have commercial uses.

Preemptive Strike

Attack launched to destroy a country's weapons in order to eliminate the threat of those weapons being used in an attack against an enemy. Orders to launch a preemptive strike would be given after intelligence data has been received and analyzed. If the data indicate that an adversary is preparing for a nuclear attack, a preemptive strike could be undertaken to stop (or "blunt") the nuclear attack.

Presidential Nuclear Initiatives (PNI)

President George H. W. Bush declared on September 27, 1991 that the United States would remove almost all U.S. non-strategic nuclear forces from deployment with an aim that Russia could take reciprocal actions, which could contribute to  reducing the risk of nuclear proliferation as the Soviet Union dissolved. The U.S. President specifically stated the United States would eliminate all its nuclear artillery shells and short-range nuclear ballistic missile warheads and remove all non-strategic nuclear warheads from surface ships, attack submarines, and land-based naval aircraft. Soviet leader Mikhail Gorbachev reciprocated on October 5, pledging to eliminate all nuclear artillery munitions, nuclear warheads for tactical missiles, and nuclear landmines. He also pledged to withdraw all Soviet tactical naval nuclear weapons from deployment. However, these pledges are not legally binding or subject to verification.

 

Potassium cyanide

A metallic salt that, under certain circumstances, releases cyanide. Cyanide is a term used to describe a variety of compounds containing the -CN molecule that are extremely toxic to mammals. Cyanide works by shutting down metabolic processes, and exposure to small amounts can quickly lead to death.

Proliferation Security Initiative

The Proliferation Security Initiative (PSI) announced by President Bush on May 31, 2003,  is a U.S.- led effort to prevent the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction, their delivery systems, and related materials through the use of information sharing and diplomatic and military coordination. Members of the initiative share a set of 13 common principles which guide PSI efforts. The core members include Australia, France, Canada, Germany, Italy, Japan, the Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Singapore, Spain, the Russian Federation, the United Kingdom, and the United States, as well as about 60 other states that have expressed political support.

Proliferation (of WMD)

The spread of WMD. Horizontal proliferation refers to the spread of WMD to states that have not previously possessed them. Vertical proliferation refers to an increase in the amount or devastating capacity of any currently existing WMD arsenals within a state.

Protocol

A negotiated document often meant as a supplement to a treaty or agreement, stipulating specific action that should be taken to fulfill the terms of the agreement or modifying the agreement.

Proton

An elementary nuclear particle with a positive electric charge located in the nucleus of an atom.

R

Radiation (ionizing radiation)

Alpha particles, beta particles, gamma rays, X-rays, neutrons, high-speed electrons, high-speed protons, and other particles capable of producing ions. Radiation that has enough energy to remove electrons from substances that it passes through, forming ions.

Radiation shielding

Any material or obstruction that absorbs radiation and thus tends to protect personnel or materials from the effects of ionizing radiation.

Radiation source

Usually a sealed source of radiation used in teletherapy and industrial radiography, as a power source for batteries, or in various types of industrial gauges. Machines, such as accelerators and radioisotope generators, and natural radionuclides may be considered sources. Some sources are also used for research and experimentation.

Radiation syndrome (also called radiation sickness)

The complex of symptoms characterizing the disease known as radiation injury, resulting from excessive exposure of the whole body (or large part) to ionizing radiation. The earliest of these symptoms is nausea, fatigue, vomiting, and diarrhea, which may be followed by loss of hair, hemorrhage, inflammation of the mouth and throat, and general loss of energy. In sever cases, where the radiation has been approximately 1,000 rad or more, death may occur within two to four weeks. Those who survive six weeks after the receipt of a single large dose of radiation to the whole body may generally be expected to recover.

Radioactive contamination

Deposition of radioactive material in any place where it may harm persons or equipment.

Radioactive decay

The decrease in the amount of any radioactive material with the passage of time due to the spontaneous emission from the atomic nuclei or either alpha or beta particles, often accompanied by gamma radiation. Each decay process has a definite half-life.

Radioactive waste

Materials which are radioactive and for which there is no further use.

Radioactivity

The spontaneous emission of radiation, generally alpha or beta particles, often accompanied by gamma rays, from the nucleus of an unstable isotope. Also, the rate at which radioactive material emits radiation.

Radiocarbon dating

A technique for estimating the age of an object by measuring the amounts of various radioisotopes in it.

Radioisotope

An unstable isotope of an element that decays or disintegrates spontaneously, emitting radiation. Approximately 5000 natural and artificial radioisotopes have been identified.

Radiological dispersal device (RDD)

A device that involves radioactive materials and some method by which those materials can be spread over a wide area. It can be a variety of sizes, and the radiation can cause contamination, economic and some physical harm. One type of RDD is the popularly named "dirty bomb." A dirty bomb uses the force of conventional explosives, such as TNT, to scatter radioactive material.

Radiological terrorism

Terrorist acts carried out either by attacking a nuclear facility or through malicious use of a radiological device.

Radiological weapons

Devices that release radiation with the intent of inflicting severe injury or financial and psychological costs. The radiological isotopes used to produce radiological dispersal devices are found in waste from medical facilities, industrial plants, and nuclear power plants.

Rapacki Plan

The Rapacki Plan was a proposal to establish a zone free of nuclear weapons in Central and Eastern Europe named after the Polish foreign minister, Adam Rapacki, in 1958. This plan sought to initially keep nuclear weapons from being deployed in Poland, Czechoslovakia, West Germany, and East Germany, but other European countries would have the opportunity to accede. Although the plan was not negotiated seriously due to the Cold War security environment, several elements of the Rapacki Plan were later adopted as guidelines for the establishment of denuclearized zones.

Ratification

The implementation of the formal process established by a country to legally bind its government to a treaty, such as approval by parliament. In the United States, treaty ratifications require approval by the president after he or she has received the advice and consent of two-thirds of the Senate. The country then submits the required legal instrument of ratification of the treaty's depositary governments.

Re-activation

The reversal of measures to deactivate or de-alert missiles or the return of former military facilities or equipment to military use. In the case of missile re-activation, warheads are removed from storage facilities and redeployed on missiles in response to a perceived threat escalation.

Reentry phase

That portion of the trajectory of a ballistic missile or space vehicle when the vehicle reenters the earth's atmosphere.

Regime

An institution in which rules or practices (sometimes memorialized in a treaty or convention) are generally accepted by a group of states to help them work together in an otherwise anarchic world.

Ricin

A poisonous protein extracted from the castor bean. Ricin is a powerful toxin that can be lethal in extremely small quantities and in the past has been developed by countries for use as a biological weapon.

Rightist

Favoring or tending toward the promotion of conservative or even fascist political ideologies. Commonly associated with authoritarian political systems.

"Rogue" states

Countries regarded as hostile to the United States and its allies and suspected of developing or deploying WMD. Though the U.S. State Department discourages use of this term, it is still used by some U.S. officials in reference to Iran, North Korea, and Syria. The term "States of concern" has replaced the term "rogue" states.

S

Safeguards

Monitoring of nuclear material to ensure it is not used for military purposes, as implemented by the International Atomic Energy Agency.

Sanctions

Economic or military penalties or measures enacted against a state in response to that state's violation of international rules or "norms" or treaty obligations.

Sarin

A nerve agent used in chemical weapons. Code named GB in the West (NATO), sarin is a highly toxic organophosphate compound, similar to an insecticide, first developed by German scientists in the 1930s. Like other agents in this category, it binds with the body's enzymes and causes chemical imbalances within the body's nervous system. Most binary chemical munitions have been built to deliver sarin on the battlefield.

Salmonella typhimurium

A bacterium that causes diarrhea and related gastrointestinal symptoms. The organism is a relatively common cause of food-borne illness and is rarely fatal.

Science and Technology Center Ukraine

Established in 1993 by the European Union, the United States, Canada, and Ukraine, the STCU supports research and development activities that engage weapons scientists and engineers from Ukraine, Georgia, and Uzbekistan in peaceful civilian science and technology activities.

Scud

Name for a series of short-range ballistic missiles developed by the Soviet Union in the 1950s and transferred to many other countries. Most theater ballistic missiles developed and deployed in countries of concern are based on the Scud design.

Seabed Treaty

The "Treaty on the Prohibition of the Emplacement of Nuclear Weapons and other Weapons of Mass Destruction on the Seabed and the Ocean Floor and in the Subsoil Thereof" prohibits the placement of nuclear weapons or any other weapons of mass destruction on the seabed, the ocean floor, and in the subsoil of the ocean floor beyond a signatory's 12-miles coastal zone. A conference to review the treaty is held every five years. Opened for signature on February 11, 1971, it entered into force on May 18, 1972. As of April 2005, there were 95 parties to the treaty; in addition, 21 states have signed but not ratified the treaty.

Sealed source

Any radioactive material or byproduct encased in a capsule designed to prevent leakage or escape of the material.

Security Council Resolution 1540

A resolution passed by the UN Security Council in April 2004 that calls on all states to refrain from supporting, by any means, non-state actors which attempt to acquire, use, or transfer chemical, biological or nuclear weapons and their delivery systems.  The resolution also calls for a committee to report on the progress of the resolution, asking states to submit a report on steps taken in conforming to the resolution.

Shahab

Name for a series of theater ballistic missiles under development in Iran. Also spelled Shehab.

Short-range missiles

Also referred to as theater missiles. Short-range missiles have a range of less than 1,000 kilometers.

Signature

The signing of a treaty by a senior representative of a country (such as the president or secretary of state) which indicates that the country accepts the treaty and commits, until the country completes its ratification process, not to take any actions that would undermine its purposes, according to the Vienna Convention on the Law of Treaties.

Silo

Hardened underground facility for housing and launching a ballistic missile and designed to provide pre-launch protection against nuclear attack.

Southeast Asian Nuclear-Weapon-Free-Zone

See Treaty of Bangkok below.

South Pacific Nuclear-Weapon-Free-Zone

See Treaty of Rarotonga below.

Spent nuclear fuel

Fuel that has been removed from a nuclear reactor because it can no longer sustain power production for economic or other reasons.

States of Concern

The term used to denote states hostile to the United States and its allies and which are developing or possess WMD. (See Rogue States).

Stationing

Stationing means implantation, emplacement, transport on land or inland waters, stockpiling, storage, installation, and deployment.

Strategic Arms Limitations Talks (SALT I & II)

Strategic Arms Limitations Talks between the Soviet Union and the United State were aimed at limiting missile systems and other strategic armaments. The first round of talks (SALT I) was held from 1969-1972, and the second from 1972-1979. Salt I concluded on May 20, 1971, when the ABM Treaty and the Interim Agreement limiting strategic offensive arms were signed. The SALT II Treaty was signed on June 18, 1979, but was not ratified by either country.

Strategic Arms Reduction Talks (START I & II)

This term refers to the negotiations between the United States and the Soviet Union/Russian Federation held from 1982 to 1993 to limit and reduce the numbers of strategic offensive nuclear weapons in each country's nuclear arsenal. The talks resulted in the 1991 START I Treaty, which entered into force in December 1994, and the 1993 START II Treaty. Each treaty is officially named the "Treaty between the United States of America and the Union of Soviet Socialist Republics on the Reduction and Limitation of Strategic Offensive Arms." START I was originally negotiated between the United States and the Soviet Union, and now applies to the United States, Russian Federation, Belarus, Kazakhstan and Ukraine. Belarus, Kazakhstan, and Ukraine have all renounced their possession of nuclear weapons under the 1992 Lisbon Protocol to START I. START II, which calls for further reductions in the United States and Russia has been ratified by the two countries, but has not yet entered into force.

Strategic Defense Initiative (SDI)

The national defense program launched by U.S. President Ronald Reagan in March 1983, to study the feasibility of researching and developing defensive measures against ballistic missiles. President Reagan called for "a long-term research and development program to begin to achieve our ultimate goal of eliminating the threat posed by strategic nuclear missiles" that is consistent with U.S. obligations under the ABM Treaty.

Strategic nuclear warheads

Warheads placed on long-range delivery systems, on land-based Intercontinental ballistic missiles (ICBMs), submarine-launched ballistic missiles (SLBMs), and long-range bombers.

Sub-critical tests

Tests that are used to gather information about nuclear warhead design and performance. Although sub-critical tests use some fissile materials, the tests do not produce a nuclear explosion or lead to any release of radioactivity.

Submarine-launched ballistic missiles (SLBM)

A ballistic missile that is carried aboard and launched from a submarine.

Subnational group

A distinct group of people acting independently of the nation as a whole and operating without state supervision. The term often refers to groups acting against the government of the state, such as guerrillas or terrorists.

Supportive treatment

Medical treatment that concentrates on alleviating the symptoms of a disease rather than its cause.

Supreme national interests

Essential requirements that influence and guide a state in the creation of its foreign policy. Supreme national interests include territorial integrity, self preservation, independence, military security, and economic well-being.

Survivalist

A person who anticipates and prepares for the end of the world or some other calamitous event arising as a result of a religious or secular catastrophe. Survivalists tend to live in remote areas isolated from others and are noted for possessing large stockpiles of food and weapons.

T

Tabun

The first nerve agent produced in significant quantities for military use. Like sarin, tabun was developed by German scientists in the 1930s and was used by Iraqi forces in the 1980 to 1988 Iran-Iraq war.

Tactical nuclear weapons

Short-range nuclear weapons, such as artillery shells, bombs, and short-range missiles, deployed for use in battlefield operations.

Taepodong

Name for a series of theater ballistic missiles under development in North Korea. The most advanced versions of this series may have sufficient range to strike parts of Alaska and Hawaii.

Targeting

Use of computer code to determine the location where a missile will strike. Computer code cannot be observed by the adversary and, therefore, it is difficult to verify whether de-targeting pledges have been implemented.

Terminal-phase

The final phase of a warhead's trajectory when it re-enters the earth's atmosphere and strikes the target.

Territory

Territory means the land territory, internal waters, territorial seas, and archipelagic waters and the airspace above them as well as the sea bed and subsoil beneath.

Theater High Altitude Air Defense (THAAD)

The U.S. Army's air defense program designed to provide extended defense and to engage an incoming missile at ranges of up to several hundred kilometers. THAAD will deploy a hit-to-kill interceptor equipped with an infrared seeker. Unlike fragmentation warheads that explode near an object in order to destroy it, the THAAD interceptor is designed to collide with the target ballistic missile. The interception is intended to occur outside the earth's atmosphere, or high in the atmosphere.

Theater missile

Short-range delivery system (missile) with a range of 1,000 kilometers or less.

Theater missile defense (TMD)

Missile interceptors designed to destroy shorter-range ballistic missiles aimed at deployed troops or overseas facilities.

Thermonuclear weapon

A nuclear weapon in which fusion of light nuclei, such as deuterium and tritium, contributes the main explosive energy. The high temperatures required for such fusion reactions are obtained by means of an initial fission explosion. It is also referred to as a hydrogen bomb.

Thirteen Practical Steps

The Thirteen Practical Steps toward nuclear disarmament were adopted as part of the Final Document at the 2000 NPT Review Conference. The steps outline ways in which Article VI, the nuclear disarmament provision of the NPT, can be implemented. Most noteworthy was the "unequivocal undertaking" given by the nuclear-weapons states (NWS) to accomplish the total elimination of their nuclear arsenals leading to nuclear disarmament. Furthermore, the NWS agreed to steps leading to nuclear disarmament in a way that promotes international stability.

Threshold Test Ban Treaty (TTBT)

Officially called the "Treaty on the Limitation of Underground Nuclear Weapon Tests." This treaty between the United States and the former Soviet Union prohibits underground nuclear weapon tests having a yield exceeding 150 kilotons. The treaty was signed on July 3, 1974, and entered into force on December 11, 1990.

Toxin

A poison formed as a specific secretion product in the metabolism of a vegetable or animal organism, as distinguished from inorganic poisons. Such poisons can also be manufactured by synthetic processes.

Transparency measures

The exchange of information, access to facilities, and cooperative arrangements states undertake to provide ready observation and verification of treaty or defense obligations, as well as other activities.

Treaty of Bangkok
(Treaty on the Southeast Asian Nuclear-Weapon-Free-Zone)

The treaty prohibits the development, manufacture, acquisition, or testing of nuclear weapons anywhere within the region of the parties. It also prohibits the transport of nuclear weapons through the region. Signatories also undertake to enact International Atomic Energy Agency safeguards and to refrain from dumping at sea, discharging into the atmosphere, or burying on land any radioactive material or waste. Opened for signature on December 15, 1995, the treaty entered into force on March 27, 1997. As of April 2005, there were nine parties and one state that has signed but not yet ratified the treaty. None of the nuclear-weapon states (NWS) has yet signed the protocols.

Treaty of Pelindaba
(Treaty on the African Nuclear-Weapon-Free-Zone)

The African nuclear-weapon-free-zone treaty was opened for signature in Cairo on April 11, 1996. This treaty prohibits the research, development, manufacturing, stockpiling, acquisition, testing, possession, control, and stationing of nuclear explosive devices in the members' territory. The treaty also prohibits the deposit of radioactive waste originating from outside the continent within the region. Under the treaty, signatories are required to put all their nuclear programs under International Atomic Energy Agency safeguards. The treaty also provides for the establishment of the African Commission on Nuclear Energy (AFCONE), which will supervise treaty implementation and ensure compliance. As of April 2005, there were 17 parties to the treaty; in addition, 52 states have signed but not ratified the treaty. All five nuclear weapon states have signed the relevant protocols to the treaty.

Treaty of Rarotonga
(Treaty on the South Pacific Nuclear-Weapon-Free Zone)

This treaty prohibits the testing, manufacturing, acquiring, and stationing of nuclear explosive devices in any member's territory. The treaty prohibits dumping radioactive wastes into the sea. In addition, the treaty requires all parties to apply International Atomic Energy Agency safeguards to all their peaceful nuclear activities. It was opened for signature on August 6, 1985, and entered into force on December 11, 1986. As of April 2005, there were 12 parties to the treaty. The treaty has three Protocols that refer to provisions of territories within the zone that belong to the United States, France, the United Kingdom, Russia, and China. All five nuclear weapon states have signed the protocols.

Treaty of Tlatelolco

This treaty created a nuclear-weapon-free zone in Latin America and the Caribbean. The Treaty of Tlatelolco was the first international agreement that aimed at excluding nuclear weapons from an inhabited region of the globe. The member states accept the application of International Atomic Energy Agency safeguards for all their nuclear activities to assist in verifying compliance with the treaty. The treaty also establishes a regional organization, the Agency for the Prohibition of Nuclear Weapons in Latin America (OPANAL), to help ensure compliance with its provisions. The treaty was opened for signature on February 14, 1967. The treaty will enter into force when all states of the region have signed and ratified. China, France, the Netherlands, the Russian Federation, the United Kingdom, and the United States have signed the relevant protocols in the treaty.

Treaty on the Non-proliferation of Nuclear Weapons (NPT)

Signed in 1968, the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons (NPT) provides that signatory nations without nuclear weapons will not seek to build them and will accept safeguards to prevent diversion of nuclear material and technology from peaceful uses to a weapons program. States possessing nuclear weapons at the signing of the NPT agreed not to help non-nuclear states gain access to nuclear weapons, but to offer them access to peaceful nuclear technology. All states agree to work towards the eventual elimination of nuclear weapons. As of January 2006, there are 188 Parties to the NPT. (This number excludes the DPRK.) The NPT also provides for review conferences at five-year intervals.

Triad

The 2001 Nuclear Posture Review announced that the new Triad would include the integration of missile defenses, nuclear weapons and non-nuclear strike forces. This revision is designed to reduce reliance on nuclear weapons in the U.S. military doctrine, as opposed to the Cold War Triad, which integrated three forms of nuclear deployment: intercontinental ballistic missiles (ICBMs), sea-launched ballistic missiles (SLBMs), and strategic bombers.

Triage

A process for sorting injured people into groups based on their need for or likely benefit from immediate medical treatment.

Trilateral Statement on the Non-Proliferation of Weapons of Mass Destruction and the Means of Their Delivery

Signed by U.S. President Bill Clinton, Russian President Boris Yeltsin, and Ukrainian President Leonid Kravchuk in January 1994, the Trilateral Statement commits Ukraine to rid itself of nuclear weapons and to transfer 200 SS-19 and SS-24 warheads to Russia over a ten-month period. The Trilateral Statement also specifies that Ukraine is to deactivate its SS-24s within the same ten-month period. The United States and Russia agree to guarantee Ukraine's borders and grant Ukraine security guarantees as long as Ukraine joins the NPT as a non-nuclear weapons state.

U

Unauthorized launch

The accidental or unintended launch of nuclear missiles because of faulty intelligence, systematic or mechanical failures, or mistaken action of military personnel.

United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (The Law of the Sea)

The United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) was opened for signature at Montego Bay, Jamaica, on December 10, 1982. It entered into force 12 year later on November 16, 1994. The Law of the Sea establishes a comprehensive legal framework to regulate all ocean space, its uses and resources. It contains, among other things, provisions relating to the territorial sea, the contiguous zone, the continental shelf, the exclusive economic zone and the high seas. It also provides for the protection and preservation of the marine environment, for marine scientific research and the development and transfer of marine technology. For purpose of NWFZ, the most important provision of UNCLOS is the right of innocent passage and freedom of the high seas.

United Nations General Assembly

It is the full body of the United Nations including all member states. It is responsible for much of the work of the United Nations, controlling finance, passing resolutions and electing non-permanent members of the Security Council. (See United Nations Security Council)

United Nations Monitoring, Verification and Inspection Commission (UNMOVIC)

Successor to UNSCOM established by UN Security Council Resolution 1284 (1999). The Commission is mandated to establish a reinforced, ongoing monitoring and verification system to check Iraq's compliance with its obligations not to reacquire WMD. Resolution 1284 provides for a temporary lifting of sanctions against Iraq once it verifies that Iraq has cooperated with the Commission for a period of 120 days.

United Nations Security Council

Under the United Nations Charter, the Security Council has primary responsibility for maintaining international peace and security. The Council consists of fifteen members, five of which are permanent-China, France, the Russian Federation, the United Kingdom, and the United States. The other ten members are elected by the General Assembly for two-year terms. The five permanent members have veto power.

United Nations Special Commission on Iraq (UNSCOM)

An inspection and weapons destruction program established pursuant to paragraph 9(b)(l) of UN Security Council Resolution 687 (1991) following the Gulf War. Section C of this resolution called for the elimination, under international supervision, of Iraq's WMD and ballistic missiles with a range greater than 150 kilometers, together with related items and production facilities. It also called for measures to ensure that Iraq did not resume the acquisition and production of prohibited items. UNSCOM was set up to implement the non-nuclear provisions of the resolution and to assist the International Atomic Energy Agency in the nuclear areas.

Uppsala Declaration on NWFZs

The Uppsala Declaration on NWFZs was adopted on September 4, 2000, at an international seminar attended by more than 50 experts, activists, and diplomats from six continents in Uppsala, Sweden. They discussed the feasibility of establishing new NWFZs across the world. In the declaration, participants adopted a program of future activities including campaigns on both regional and global levels for, public education on the value of NWFZs with a view to creating new NWFZs and strengthening existing ones.

V

Verification

The process of using mechanisms such as satellites, seismic monitoring, or on-site inspections, to collect data that demonstrates a party's compliance with an agreement or treaty.

Vertical proliferation

An increase in the size, quality, or destructive capacity of an existing weapon of mass destruction arsenal.

Vesicant

See blister agent

Volatile

In the context of chemical agents, readily vaporizable at normal temperatures and pressures.

W

Warsaw Pact

Created in 1955 by the Soviet Union and its six Central European satellites, this military and political security alliance was the counterpart of NATO. It was formally dissolved on April 1, 1991.

Wassenaar Arrangement

Representatives of 33 states met in Vienna, Austria, in July 1996, and established this arrangement to contribute to regional and international security by promoting transparency and greater responsibility with regard to transfers of conventional arms and dual-use goods and technologies. Members also seek through national policies to ensure that transfers of these items do not contribute to the development or enhancement of military capabilities that undermine these goals, and are not diverted to support such capabilities. This organization is the successor to COCOM and has 39 members as of January 2006.

Weapons-grade

Refers to nuclear material that is most suitable for the manufacture of nuclear weapons- e.g., uranium (U) enriched to 93 percent U-235 or plutonium (Pu) that is over 90 percent Pu-239. Crude weapons can be fabricated from lower-grade material.

Weapons-usable material

Refers to nuclear material that is most suitable for the manufacture of nuclear weapons- e.g., uranium (U) enriched to 93 percent U-235 or plutonium (Pu) that is over 90 percent Pu-239. Crude weapons can be fabricated from lower-grade material.

WMD (weapons of mass destruction)

Nuclear, biological, or chemical weapons.

Y

Yield

The amount of energy released by a nuclear explosion, generally measured in equivalent tons of trinitrotoluene (TNT). A kiloton is equivalent to 1,000 tons of TNT; a megaton is equivalent to one million tons of TNT.

Z

Zangger Committee

A group of 35 nuclear exporting states established in 1971 under the chairmanship of Claude Zangger of Switzerland. The purpose of the committee is to maintain a "trigger list" of (1) source of special fissionable materials, and (2) equipment or materials especially designed or prepared for the processing, use, or production of special fissionable materials. Additionally the committee has identified certain dual-use technologies as requiring safeguarding when they are supplied to non-nuclear weapon states to be used for nuclear purposes. These include explosives, centrifuge components, and special materials. The Zangger Committee is an informal arrangement and its decisions are not legally binding upon its members.

Zone of application

The zone of application of a NWFZ generally means the whole of the "territories" of the contracting parties within the defined region. Defining where the zone is applicable has often been a subject of difficult negotiations.

Zone of Peace, Freedom and Neutrality (ZOPFAN)

In November 1971, foreign ministers from ASEAN member states met and adopted the "ZOPFAN vision" in the Kuala Lumpur Declaration to establish the Zone of Peace, Freedom and Neutrality in Southeast Asia. The declaration states that ASEAN nations "are determined to exert initially necessary efforts to secure the recognition of, and respect for, Southeast Asia as a zone of peace, freedom and neutrality, free from any form or manner of interference by outside Powers."

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American Heritage® Dictionary of the English Language, Fourth Edition

Atomic Archive

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FEMA website

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Gardner, Gary T. Nuclear Nonproliferation: A Primer (Boulder: Lynne Rienner Publishers, 1994)

Hoffmann, Bruce. Inside Terrorism, Columbia University Press, New York, 1998.

Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory

McLean, Iain, ed. The Concise Oxford Dictionary of Politics, Oxford University Press, Oxford, 1996.

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U.S. NRC website

"Science, Society and America's Nuclear Waste - Ionizing Radiation, Unit 2, First Edition" (DOE/RW-0362 SR, U.S. Dept. of Energy, OCRWM Information Center, Curriculum Department).

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