New START Treaty

Definition

The New START Treaty is a nuclear arms reduction treaty between the United States and Russia that was signed in 2010 and entered into force in 2011. It aims to limit the number of deployed strategic nuclear warheads and delivery systems, reflecting ongoing efforts to promote stability and security in international relations concerning nuclear weapons.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The New START Treaty limits the number of deployed strategic warheads to 1,550 for each country, which is a significant reduction from previous levels.
2. It also places limits on the number of deployed and non-deployed intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM) launchers, submarine-launched ballistic missile (SLBM) launchers, and heavy bombers.
3. The treaty includes comprehensive verification measures, such as on-site inspections and data exchanges, to ensure compliance by both parties.
4. New START is set to expire in 2026, but it can be extended for up to five additional years if both parties agree.
5. The treaty plays a crucial role in promoting strategic stability and reducing the risk of nuclear arms races between the U.S. and Russia.

Review Questions

• What are the primary goals of the New START Treaty, and how do they relate to global nuclear disarmament efforts?
  • The primary goals of the New START Treaty are to reduce the number of deployed strategic nuclear warheads and delivery systems between the U.S. and Russia, thereby enhancing global security. By setting clear limits on these arsenals, the treaty contributes to broader disarmament efforts by demonstrating a commitment to reducing reliance on nuclear weapons. This aligns with international aspirations for a safer world where nuclear threats are minimized.
• How do the verification mechanisms established by the New START Treaty enhance trust between the United States and Russia?
  • The verification mechanisms of the New START Treaty, including on-site inspections and regular data exchanges, are designed to build trust between the U.S. and Russia by ensuring transparency in each other's nuclear arsenals. These mechanisms help prevent misunderstandings or miscalculations that could escalate tensions, contributing to a more stable strategic environment. By allowing both countries to monitor compliance actively, these measures strengthen diplomatic relations amid ongoing security challenges.
• Evaluate the implications of potential expiration or non-renewal of the New START Treaty on future U.S.-Russia relations and global nuclear security.
  • If the New START Treaty expires or is not renewed, it could lead to increased uncertainty in U.S.-Russia relations as both countries might ramp up their nuclear arsenals without formal limits. This scenario could reignite an arms race, undermining years of progress in nuclear disarmament efforts. The absence of this treaty would likely diminish global nuclear security as other states may perceive a lack of commitment from major powers like the U.S. and Russia towards arms control, potentially leading to further proliferation and destabilizing regional conflicts.

Related terms

Strategic Arms Reduction Treaty (START): A series of treaties between the United States and Russia aimed at reducing the number of strategic nuclear weapons and enhancing verification measures.

Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT): An international treaty aimed at preventing the spread of nuclear weapons, promoting peaceful uses of nuclear energy, and fostering disarmament efforts.

Mutually Assured Destruction (MAD): A military doctrine where both sides in a conflict possess enough nuclear weapons to destroy each other, deterring both from launching an attack.