Nuclear Use Authority
There is no more consequential decision for a president than ordering a nuclear strike. Once launched, a nuclear-armed missile cannot be recalled or aborted. Today, the strategic environment and threats that could lead to the use of a nuclear weapon have changed from the Cold War, yet much of U.S. policy with respect to nuclear use authority remains grounded in that past era, increasing the risk of an accident or a mistake.
Statement from Ernest J. Moniz and Sam Nunn on Nuclear Use Authority
The President and Nuclear Weapons: Authorities, Limits, and Process
More resources
U.S. Nuclear Policies for a Safer World
Assessing and Managing the Benefits and Risks of Artificial Intelligence in Nuclear-Weapon Systems
NTI Seminar: A Stable Nuclear Future? Autonomous Systems, Artificial Intelligence and Strategic Stability with UPenn’s Michael C. Horowitz
Projects
Past Project Safer World 2020
Engaging U.S. voters about the urgency to reduce nuclear and other WMD threats
More News and Analysis on Nuclear Weapons Programs, Policy, and Deterrence
85% of Registered Voters Support the United States Working with China to Mitigate AI Risks, according to New Poll
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Reducing Nuclear Risks: Six Practical Options
This paper outlines six practical options that non-nuclear weapon states could pursue to reduce nuclear risks amid heightened geopolitical tensions. The options were developed based on interviews with nuclear policy experts from around the world. They reflect priority areas where government investment could have the most near- to medium-term impact, as well as the tools and channels through which these efforts could be advanced.
Global Nuclear Fail-Safe Reviews: Meeting Summaries and Resources
The Nuclear Threat Initiative (NTI), Euro-Atlantic Security Leadership Group (EASLG), Asia-Pacific Leadership Network (APLN), and European Leadership Network (ELN) have worked since March 2020 to highlight the benefits of independent, internal “fail-safe” reviews in nuclear-armed states.
Statement of the Nuclear Threat Initiative on the U.S.–Saudi 123 Agreement
The global expansion of nuclear energy, including in the Middle East, is in the United States’ interest—but it should not come at the expense of security.
Statement of Christine Wormuth on U.S-Iran Memorandum of Understanding
The US must act with urgency and seriousness over the next 60 days to forge an agreement that closes off all pathways to a nuclear bomb.
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