The Daily What Are Tactical Nuclear Weapons, and What if Russia Uses Them?
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Oct 7, 2022 
William J. Broad, a seasoned science reporter for The New York Times, discusses the chilling topic of tactical nuclear weapons amidst rising tensions in Ukraine. He breaks down the differences between these smaller nuclear arms and historical giants like those used in Hiroshima. Broad highlights the psychological impact of Putin's threats and the complexities of deploying such weapons in modern warfare. With insights into both historical contexts and current geopolitical dynamics, listeners gain a clearer understanding of the potential consequences of these weapons.
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The Rise of H-Bombs
- The "Hiroshima bomb" (1945) is imprinted on our minds as a symbol of nuclear devastation.
- Subsequent Cold War H-bombs became much larger, with the Soviets detonating one 3,000 times stronger.
Tactical Nukes: A Parallel Development
- Smaller "tactical nukes" were developed alongside larger bombs, a fact less known to the public.
- These were designed for battlefield use, targeting infrastructure rather than cities.
Tactical Nukes as a Deterrent
- The West developed smaller tactical nuclear weapons to offset the Soviet Union's larger manpower.
- These weapons were intended to deter a Soviet invasion of Western Europe.