Japan's nuclear weapons options and U.S. Security interests
By: Christpher H. Sharman
Publisher: Naval Postgraduate School; Available from National Technical Information Service
Published: 1998
Place of publication: Monterey, Calif; Springfield, Va
Language: eng
Number of pages: 91
Description: Japan is a virtual nuclear weapons power. It has the scientific and technical ability to produce hundreds or even      thousands of nuclear weapons, but has chosen not to do so for political reasons. This thesis examines the      historical development of Japan's nuclear energy and aerospace programs since the mid-1950s and considers      the possibility that at various points in its history, Japan used these programs as a cover to insure that its nuclear      weapons options remained open. This thesis analyzes internal and external factors that may have influenced      Japan's nuclear policies. External factors include regional threats, international pressures to join the      Non-Proliferation Treaty, and distrust of U.S. commitments to provide for Japan's defense. Internal factors      include Japan's historical tradition of a strong military state and Japan's unique nuclear allergy. While both      external and internal factors have influenced the path of Japans nuclear energy and aerospace programs,      internal factors will drive Japan to maintain its plutonium-based energy program and will allow Japan to remain      a virtual nuclear power well into the twenty-first century.
Notes: Thesis advisor(s): Peter R. Lavoy, David S. Yost.

"June 1998."

Thesis (M.A. in National Security Affairs) Naval Postgraduate School, June 1998.

Includes bibliographical references (p. 83-87)

Approved for public release; distribution unlimited.

US Navy (USN) author.

dk/dk cc:9116 09/24/98.