South Asian region is generally perceived as a nuclear flashpoint in which two rival nations, India and Pakistan, are interlocked in a dangerous and costly arms race. Both the countries are seriously engaged in revising their plans and developing their nuclear weapons and delivery systems. Display of offensive force capabilities, provocative military manoeuvres, fanatic statements by political leaders, sudden tests of advanced missile systems and large military exercises on the borders have been common in the region. To assume that South Asia's nuclearisation is going to promote regional stability is false, as deterrence is not likely to work in the region. Vertical and horizontal proliferations have increased the possibility of nuclear war if not by design then by accident/miscalculations.

This volume examines the nuclear and missile programmes of both India and Pakistan. It unfolds the mysteries why and how the two nations went nuclear? It also highlights the possible scenarios in which nuclear deterrence can break down. Missile development programmes of both the countries have also been evaluated in greater detail. Force Structures, nuclear doctrines, technical strategies, current capabilities, technical descriptions of missile systems and future plans of both the countries have been incorporated to provide better understanding of the issues. It also makes a comparative assessment of nuclear and missile programmes of both countries along with their security implications at regional, bilateral and global level.

The book may be beneficial for students, teachers, researchers, policy-makers, defence personnel, security analysts, as well as for common readers anxious to know the situation of nuclear security in South Asia.

Contents

Introduction

Nuclear Security in South Asia

India's Missile Programme

Pakistan's Missile Programme

Comparative Assessment

Security Implications

Conclusion

Appendices