ABSTRACT
This chapter explores the consequences of the discussion in the years 1972-3 in Sweden on the possible introduction of 'mini-nukes' in the European theatre, and reviews the discussion and subsequent intervention at the Geneva Disarmament Conference. It focuses on Sweden, a middle-sized non-aligned country in northern Europe with a small population. The concept of mini-nukes means nuclear weapons in the sub-kiloton range down to yields comparable to the largest conventional charges. The effects of such weapons should be generally limited to the military targets at which they are aimed thus reducing the collateral damage associated with ordinary nuclear explosions. The consequences for non-aligned countries such as Sweden if mini-nukes were to be deployed by the blocs in Europe would be negative, as would any drastic increase of the general firepower of the large armies.
