TRANSITION TO THE USE OF NUCLEAR WEAPONS IN THE COURSE OF AN OFF

Created: 4/1/1966

OCR scan of the original document, errors are possible

Transition to tho Us* of Nuclear Weapon* in the Course of an Offensive Operation

by Colonel A. PostovalovCandidate of Kllltsry Sciences, Decent

The foundations for successful transition to tha use of nuclear weapons are laid down during the preparation for the operation. During this period the decision is made onof the arsry in the initial nuclear strike of the front, and on troop action to exploit the results of the strike. Tasks are assigned to those who will carry them out. Coordinated action, reconnaissance, and final reconnaissance are organised for the initial nucleareliable control system is established with first priority for the nuclear weapons; constant readiness is ensured for using these weaponsj steps are taken to defend the troops and rear services facilities In the event of surprise use of nuclear weapons by the anemyt and finally, operationalfor nuclearthe radloelectronlc struggle are organized for the delivery of the initial nuclear strike, and nuclear warhead reserves ere echeloned.

From the beginning of en operstion using conventional weapons, work continues without interruption to maintain constant troop readiness for the use of nuclear weapons. The reason for this is to make it possible to deliver the initial strike in the shortest possible time after the elgnal is received. To this endand final reconnaisssnce are carried out on eneasy targets slated for destruction in the initial nuclear strike; the mission of the nuclear woapons which will be used in the initial atrike is refined in good time; steps arc taken to prevent the loss of launchers and nuclear warheads and to preserve reliable control over the means planned for delivering the initial nuclearonstant struggle is carried out against the enamy's nuclear woaponsi and checks aro made on the readiness of the troops for action under conditions of the use of weapons of mass destruction.

On the basis of the experience of conmand and staff exorcises and war games conducted at tha M. V. Prunie Military Academy, this article setsumber of considerations on the procedures for transition from non-nuclear combat action to nuclear in an

APPROVED FOB RELEASE DATE: 7

array offensive operation, as applicable to the Western Theater of Military Operations.

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