This book is a historical and strategic analysis of the nuclear dimension of the US alliance with Australia, Australia's relationship with nuclear weapons, nuclear strategy, and US extended nuclear deterrence.

'Why did Australia pursue nuclear weapons, then give up the chase? And what lessons can we learn from this little known story to better understand current nuclear dynamics, particularly in East Asia? Exploiting a variety of declassified documents, Leah provides compelling answers to these important questions. Australia and the Bomb should become the standard work on the how and why of Australia's nuclear decision-making and why it matters today.' - Francis J. Gavin, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, USA

Autorentext

Christine M. Leah received her PhD from the Australian National University. She is affiliated with the Security Studies Program at Massachusetts Institute of Technology, USA.

Inhalt

1. Introduction: Australia and Nuclear Strategy 2. Almost Oblivious to END, 1945-1957 3. An Emerging Appreciation of END, 1957-1968 4. 'Acceptance' of U.S. END, 1968-1973 5. 'Reliance' on U.S. END, 1973-1990 6. After the Cold War: END Thinking Remains Unchanged, 1990-Present 7. Conclusions: Conceptual Themes 8. Strategic and Policy Implications for the Future