Quote:
Originally Posted by jatx
Okay, so their last attempt at using crude liquid explosives ended in a pitiful display of partial self-immolation, but we are supposed to worry about them deploying nukes??? I can't imagine that they have the capacity for the proper care and feeding of a complete device, let alone its construction or assembly.
How many fully functional Stinger missiles were discovered in Afghanistan? How complex was the required maintenance and storage on those devices compared to that required for a nuke?
IMHO, the only "nuclear weapon" that AQ will ever deploy is a low-grade dirty bomb. The ability of our government and first responders to respond to one of those is highly suspect, though, let alone that of other friendly governments.
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From the original article:
"Al-Qaida’s motivations suggest “the greatest threat is posed by the most effective and simple means of mass destruction, whether these means consist of
nuclear, biological, or other forms of asymmetric weapons.”
What's a dirty bomb do to human lives and property values. Anthrax in the NYC Subway would take decdes to clean up. What's the cost and opportunity cost of that economic impact?
They are relentless and we are wrong to underestimate their committment or capabilities. My take is that when they're serious, they'll send professionals. For now, they're sending the B-Team to test the weakness in the system.