Nuclear weapons lack self-abort features despite technological advances and ongoing global tensions

interestingengineering.com

Current nuclear military doctrine relies on the principle of Mutually Assured Destruction (MAD), which deters nuclear strikes by ensuring any attack would lead to total retaliation. This doctrine remains unchanged since the Cold War, despite growing global tensions. Nuclear weapons, once launched, cannot be recalled or disabled due to design choices aimed at preventing electronic sabotage. While some missile systems have flight termination capabilities, these are not standard for operational nuclear weapons, raising concerns about accidental launches. Technological advancements could allow for communication with warheads during critical phases of flight, potentially enabling abort commands. However, implementing such systems in nuclear arsenals would require significant policy changes and international cooperation.


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