Abstract
Although it emerged as an overt nuclear power by testing nuclear weapons in May 1998, Pakistan is yet to formally adopt a nuclear use doctrine. This article endeavours to construct a proto Pakistani nuclear use doctrine from its declaratory and operational postures, in particular from the statements and interviews of the Pakistani political and military leaders and government officials. Initially reflecting upon its pre-1998 nuclear strategy, which has got critical implications for the post-tests doctrinal contemplation, this article explains Pakistani attempts to develop doctrinal concepts and a command and control structure, and illuminates the dilemmas and challenges Islamabad confronts in doing so. Finally, it provides a brief assessment of the Pakistani doctrine’s implications for other small nuclear powers and for crisis stability in the South Asia region.
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