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Perspectives on Nuclear Deterrence in the 21st Century

Nuclear deterrence theory, with its roots in the Cold War era, may not account for all eventualities in the 21st century. Researchers at Chatham House have worked with eight experts to produce this collection of essays examining four contested themes in contemporary policymaking on deterrence.

Research paper 20 April 2020 ISBN: 978 1 78413 391 7

Royal Navy Vanguard Class submarine HMS Vigilant returning to HMNB Clyde after extended deployment. The four Vanguard-class submarines form the UK's strategic nuclear deterrent force. Photo: Ministry of Defence.

— Royal Navy Vanguard Class submarine HMS Vigilant returning to HMNB Clyde after extended deployment. The four Vanguard-class submarines form the UK’s strategic nuclear deterrent force. Photo: Ministry of Defence.

Dr Beyza Unal

Former Deputy Director, International Security Programme

Yasmin Afina

Former Research Fellow, Digital Society Initiative

Dr Patricia Lewis

Research Director; Director, International Security Programme

Dr John Borrie

Former Associate Fellow, International Security Programme

Jamie Shea

Associate Fellow, International Security Programme

Peter Watkins

Associate Fellow, International Security Programme

Dr Maria Rost Rublee

Associate Professor of International Relations, Monash University

Cristina Varriale

Research Fellow in Proliferation and Nuclear Policy, RUSI

Dr Tanya Ogilvie-White

Adjunct Senior Fellow, Griffith Asia Institute, Griffith University

Dr Andrew Futter

Associate Professor of International Politics, University of Leicester

Christine Parthemore

Chief Executive Officer, Council on Strategic Risks (CSR)

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Acknowledgments

The editors appreciate the valuable work of all the contributors to this paper and thank them for their essays.

This publication has been made possible by funds generously provided by the Hiroshima Prefecture. The International Security Programme is indebted to Hidehiko Yuzaki, the governor of Hiroshima, for his long-standing support of projects related to nuclear non-proliferation and disarmament. We would also like to thank the anonymous peer reviewers for their time and valuable contributions.

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