Russian Topol inter-continental ballistic missiles are pictured during a rehearsal for the nation's annual May 9 Victory Day parade (file photo)The Russian Nuclear Button -- Foreign Policy
New questions about the Soviet legacy of three briefcases.
In the event of a nuclear missile attack on Russia, three hard-shell briefcases filled with electronics are set to alert their holders simultaneously. Inside each is a portable terminal, linked to the command and control network for Russia's strategic nuclear forces. One of them accompanies the Russian president, Dmitry Medvedev, wherever he goes. It is known as the Cheget, and allows the president to monitor a missile crisis, make decisions, and transmit those decisions to the military. It's similar to the nuclear "football" that accompanies the American president.
Read more ....
My Comment: Fortunately .... the threat of massive nuclear attack is not an issue in today's world. But .... this article does raise valid points on Russia's nuclear command and control structure. My take .... civilian control over nuclear forces is a must .... the Russian PM is the second person who should have access to Russia's nuclear football.
No comments:
Post a Comment