Ydinkyvykkyydet

Ydinkyvykkyydet, Finnish for nuclear capabilities, denotes a state's capacity to exploit nuclear technology for military and civilian purposes. In security studies, the term covers both weapons-related capabilities and civilian nuclear power infrastructure that could support such weapons or be repurposed in a crisis.

Key components include: strategic knowledge and human capital; scientific infrastructure; energy programs (nuclear reactors); fuel cycle facilities (enrichment, reprocessing); and delivery systems (missiles, bombers, submarines).

Two broad domains: military nuclear capabilities (weapons stockpiles, delivery platforms, readiness) and civilian or dual-use capabilities (research reactors, medical isotopes, electricity generation). The existence of dual-use technologies makes monitoring and non-proliferation essential.

Internationally, nuclear capabilities are governed by the non-proliferation regime, notably the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT), IAEA safeguards, export controls, and arms-control agreements. Some states are recognized nuclear-weapon states under the NPT; others are non-nuclear-weapon states. Verification measures seek to ensure peaceful use of nuclear energy and to detect weaponizable activity.

Assessments of nuclear capabilities influence deterrence theory and regional security dynamics. Debates focus on non-proliferation vs. disarmament, risk management, and the challenges of ensuring safety, security, and civilian benefits.