The Nuclear Ban Treaty: An Overview

This document from the Congressional Research Service (CRS) provides an overview of the expert debate surrounding the development and deployment of a low-yield, submarine-launched nuclear warhead. The Trump Administration introduced a low-yield version of the W-76 warhead, known as the W76-2, for existing Trident II (D-5) missiles. Proponents argue that this warhead fills a gap in U.S. nuclear deterrent capabilities and enhances deterrence by providing a proportional response to limited nuclear use by adversaries. They assert that this warhead can deter Russia's "escalate to de-escalate" strategy and raise the nuclear threshold. Critics, on the other hand, argue that the deployment of low-yield warheads could lower the threshold for nuclear use and increase the risk of nuclear war. They question the need for a new weapon and argue that reaffirming commitments to allies could address the concerns raised by Russia's coercive nuclear strategy.

The debate also focuses on whether limited nuclear war is possible and the potential for a conflict to escalate to a broader nuclear exchange. Supporters of the low-yield warhead contend that its deployment could deter Russia's limited nuclear use and prevent escalation. Critics argue that any use of nuclear weapons, regardless of the scale, would lead to extensive damage and risk global catastrophe. The discussion also involves concerns about discrimination, the vulnerability of ballistic missile submarines, and considerations of collateral damage.

The document presents various viewpoints and arguments from experts on both sides of the debate, highlighting the differing perspectives on the necessity, risks, and potential implications of low-yield, submarine-launched nuclear warheads.