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