Russian roulette.
Part of a special section on the year 2000 (Y2K) computer problem. The writer discusses the effect that Y2K-related errors could have on the Russian nuclear arsenal. It is impossible for Y2K errors to trigger an automatic launch of nuclear warheads, but there is a danger that false data could be in...
| Publicado en: | Forum for Applied Research & Public Policy Vol. 14; no. 2; pp. 23 - 30 |
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| Formato: | Artículo |
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Energy, Environment & Resources Center
Summer 1999
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| Acceso en línea: | Ver este registro en EBSCOhost |
| Sumario: | Part of a special section on the year 2000 (Y2K) computer problem. The writer discusses the effect that Y2K-related errors could have on the Russian nuclear arsenal. It is impossible for Y2K errors to trigger an automatic launch of nuclear warheads, but there is a danger that false data could be interpreted as a missile strike by another nation. Y2K errors that undermine Russian telecommunications systems would prevent early warning of a nuclear strike and would lead to crucial decisions regarding retaliation being taken in a matter of minutes. Only recently have military and civilian officials in Russia acknowledged the potential dangers inherent in the Y2K problem for nuclear operations. The best means of avoiding accidental nuclear war between Russia and the U.S. would be to end the reliance of both countries on complex computer systems that provide early warning of surprise attacks. |
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