Which term best describes actions to deter, disrupt, and defeat WMD programs in proliferant states?

• A. Counterproliferation.
• B. Nonproliferation.
• C. Threat Reduction Cooperation.
• D. Consequence management.

Answer: (A)

This item tests understanding of counterproliferation—the set of measures aimed at stopping WMD programs in states that pursue them. Counterproliferation includes deterrence, which means signaling and maintaining capabilities that discourage pursuit of weapons; disruption, such as intercepting materials, cutting off illicit networks, and breaking supply chains; and defeat, taking actions to halt or degrade ongoing programs through force or highly capable operations when necessary.

Nonproliferation focuses on preventing spread through diplomacy, treaties, export controls, and safeguards; threat reduction cooperation involves programs to reduce risk by securing materials and facilities and assisting partner states; consequence management deals with responding to and mitigating the effects if WMD are used. Given the objective of deterring, disrupting, and defeating WMD programs in proliferant states, counterproliferation is the best fit.