“The nuclear question is an exceedingly difficult one for the UK; all courses of action offer murky advantages riddled with threatening pitfalls and long-term ramifications. Maintain the status quo and Washington’s influence remains strong; go it alone to shed American leverage and incur massive costs when conventional forces also need a significant upgrade.” – Defence strategist Major Rocco P. Santurri III, US Army Civil Affairs and Psychological Operations Command, assesses the UK’s nuclear options.