[ExSoldier]

Haven't spoken to Pop yet, but I have chatted with some SpecOps buddies who are knowledgeable in the realm of the "Back-Pack Nuke." They maintain that the device is designed to be from .5 kilotons to something like 5 kilotons at max and two kt is more like the reality.

If this is true (and I have no reason to disbelieve a Colonel of Special Forces, retired) then the damage and casualty analysis has to be reduced from what the link states. Still very bad, but probably not 800,000 dead. Blast effects would have to be reduced as well. Remember, all these stats are for a true nuclear detonation (no matter the size) with fairly dramatic EMP and burst of gamma radiation.

This has to be distinguished from a low yield so called "dirty bomb" which is really just high explosive with nuclear material (possibly stolen from medical facilities or such) wrapped around the device to disseminate through the atmosphere. The danger here is more from the explosion itself than any radiological contamination. It's a psychological weapon designed to damage morale rather than cause real trauma.

[milkncookies]

Good info ExSoldier. However, the info we are discussing relates to a ground burst. What about an airburst from 20, 30, 50 stories up. Or even higher?

[Quix]

THX.

I understand about the so called suitcase nukes.

But supposedly, the ones mentioned were the size of refrigerators. That's a different breed of animal as I understand it.

If you talk again, please ask him abut such possibilities.

Blessings,