South Asia's nuclear deterrence and the USA

Chakma, Bhumitra

Abstract

This chapter explains the rationale, essence and practicality of tripartite measures to reduce nuclear dangers and undertake confidence-building measures (CBMs) involving China, India and Pakistan. The chapter discusses the reasons why China, India and Pakistan built nuclear weapons and then adumbrates their nuclear policies and doctrines. It is important to discuss their rationale in going nuclear, and their doctrines, in order to fully ascertain the essence and practicality of CBMs. Without an understanding of their security concerns, perceptions, interests and postures, it is not possible to discuss why and how CBMs can be pursued. The chapter explains review of existing CBMs between the three countries. It examines conditions of no first use and its possibilities as a CBM. The chapter examines issues that are critical for reducing nuclear dangers in the region. It concludes by establishing that transparency of holdings and doctrines, combined with a no first use policy are essential for addressing nuclear dangers in southern Asia.

Citation

Chakma, B. (2011). South Asia's nuclear deterrence and the USA. In B. Chakma (Ed.), The Politics of Nuclear Weapons in South Asia (113-136). Farnham: Ashgate. https://doi.org/10.4324/9781315554334

• Acceptance Date: Sep 1, 2011
• Publication Date: Sep 1, 2011
• Publisher: Ashgate
• Pages: 113-136
• Book Title: The Politics of Nuclear Weapons in South Asia
• Chapter Number: 7
• ISBN: 9781409426264; 9781409426257 ; 9781138248830
• DOI: https://doi.org/10.4324/9781315554334
• Public URL: https://hull-repository.worktribe.com/output/409769