Nuclear deterrent cooperation involving Britain, France, and Germany

Abstract

To construct a political union with an autonomous Common Foreign and Security Policy (CFSP), the European Union (EU) must "sooner or later" address the integration of the British and French deterrents within a credible West European nuclear consultation arrangement. However, there exists little consensus among Britain, France, and Germany on the creation of a European Security and Defense Identity (ESDI), much less the "course and speed" of integration within the EU. Indeed, the "conflict and contrast" of national interests have been most conspicuous when discussions at the highest levels have turned towards creating a combined European nuclear posture through the coordination of the British and French nuclear forces. Without a "Eurodeterrent, " an autonomous CFSP for the EU would be impractical due to NATO Europe's continued reliance on US nuclear guarantees. However, if an autonomous CFSP were realized, the EU's combined nuclear posture would have significant implications for the United States and the Atlantic Alliance. Due to the complexity of the issues involved in the creation of a multinational European nuclear doctrine and deterrent, the creation of a "Eurodeterrent" should be considered the "anchorman" vice the "pacesetter" within the development of the EU's Common Foreign and Security Policy.