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Nuclear Terrorism

In the post-Soviet era, as the number of nuclear states has increased and governmental control over nuclear stockpiles has weakened, the threat of nuclear terrorism has become a growing concern of the global community. By examining whether terrorists will "go nuclear," RAND's analyses have helped policymakers understand the probable risk and potential sources of nuclear terrorism, evaluate emerging threats to the global security environment, and develop counterterrorism strategies.

Research conducted by: RAND National Security Research Division; RAND Justice, Infrastructure, and Environment; Homeland Security and Defense Center

News Releases (2)

Book by Noted Expert Proposes a Renaissance of Thought on Nuclear Deterrence for Today's Strategic Environment — Apr 17, 2012

A new book by the late French scholar Thérèse Delpech provides a critical review and update of nuclear deterrence theory, focusing a critical eye on nuclear issues during the Cold War, examining the lessons of past nuclear crises, and outlining ways in which these lessons apply to major nuclear powers and nuclear pretenders today.

News Release

Book by Brian Michael Jenkins Explores Nuclear Terrorism; Allows Readers to Confront Crisis as a President Might — Sep 10, 2008

In a new book, "Will Terrorists Go Nuclear?," leading terrorism expert Brian Michael Jenkins explores both the risks and history of nuclear terrorism, and warns that terrorists may not even need to acquire such weapons to order to perpetrate "nuclear terror."