The consequences of nuclear proliferation

In this book, Devin Hagerty examines the relationship between two emerging nuclear powers - India and Pakistan - to assess how nuclear weapons have changed their foreign and military policies.

Hagerty analyzes how India and Pakistan interacted in diplomatic and military crises before their 1998 nuclear tests. He presents detailed studies of the January 1987 Indo-Pakistani crisis, precipitated by India's Brasstacks military exercises, and the 1990 confrontation over Kashmir. Hagerty concludes that relations between India and Pakistan in recent years support the argument that nuclear proliferation does not necessarily destabilize international relations and may even reduce the risk of war.

This conclusion is grounds for optimism about peace in South Asia now that India and Pakistan have more conclusively demonstrated their nuclear-weapons capabilities.