Stuff You Should Know AQ Khan: How to Live Dangerously
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Jul 24, 2025 Dive into the controversial life of AQ Khan, the man behind Pakistan's nuclear bomb, celebrated by some as a hero and condemned by others as a dangerous arms dealer. Explore the shadowy dealings between Pakistan and North Korea that fueled nuclear ambitions. Unravel the complexities of international arms trafficking and the geopolitical turbulence of the U.S.-Pakistan relationship during the Cold War. With a mix of serious implications and light-hearted commentary, this discussion sheds light on the intricate world of nuclear proliferation.
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AQ Khan: Hero and Villain
- AQ Khan was both a national hero in Pakistan and seen as a dangerous arms dealer internationally.
- His role may have been as a fall guy for a larger proliferation network.
Stealing Secrets in the Netherlands
- AQ Khan secretly copied blueprints and supplier lists for uranium enrichment at a Dutch company.
- His expertise helped him start Pakistan's nuclear weapons program.
Two Paths to Nukes
- Uranium enrichment and plutonium production are two distinct pathways to nuclear weapons.
- Khan favored uranium enrichment, seeing it as a better route for Pakistan.