nuclear terrorism

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Definition

Noun: 1. The use of a nuclear device by a terrorist organization to cause massive devastation. 2. The use, or threat of use, of fissionable radioactive materials as a weapon or tool of coercion. This includes attacks on facilities containing such materials.

Usage

This term is used to describe a specific, high-consequence category of terrorist activity. It focuses on the terrorist acquisition and potential employment of nuclear weapons or radioactive substances to inflict harm, create fear, or achieve political goals.

Examples
  • The international community works to prevent nuclear terrorism by securing radioactive sources.
  • Intelligence agencies monitor groups suspected of seeking the capability for nuclear terrorism.
  • The treaty aims to reduce the risk of nuclear terrorism by improving the security of nuclear materials.
Advanced Usage
  • The concept often encompasses "radiological terrorism" (using radioactive materials in a "dirty bomb") as a distinct but related threat within the broader scope of nuclear terrorism.
  • Discussions of nuclear terrorism frequently involve scenarios involving stolen nuclear weapons, improvised nuclear devices, or attacks on nuclear power plants.
Variants and Related Words
  • Radiological dispersal device (RDD): Often called a "dirty bomb"; a conventional explosive used to spread radioactive material.
  • Nuclear security: Measures taken to protect nuclear materials and facilities from theft or attack.
  • Counter-terrorism: Activities aimed at preventing terrorist acts, including those involving nuclear materials.
Synonyms
  • Atomic terrorism
  • Radiological terrorism (a specific subtype)
Related Phrases
  • Nuclear blackmail: The threat of using a nuclear weapon to force concessions.
  • Preventing nuclear terrorism: A key objective of global non-proliferation and security efforts.
Noun
  1. the use of a nuclear device by a terrorist organization to cause massive devastation or the use (or threat of use) of fissionable radioactive materials
    • assaults on nuclear power plants is one form of nuclear terrorism