Armament and Disarmament

About the Book

South Africa was the first nation in the world to renounce and destroy its top-secret nuclear weapons capability. Its government also eliminated the ability to produce and deliver these warheads.

Because no one archived the official documentary evidence of the program, various writers and scholars, as well as the public at large, have been left to speculate-and forget-the activities that consumed billions of rands and years of dedication.

Based on facts and first-hand perspectives, Armament and Disarmament offers intimate views from three participants in the nuclear weapons program. A larger picture emerges through their recollections, fulfilling the role of essential perspectives and documentation where official records no longer exist. Out of secrecy and a need-to-know philosophy, many involved in the program, both wittingly and unwittingly, were never briefed as to how their particular endeavors fit into the bigger scheme.

Armament and Disarmament sheds light on the complexity of events surrounding the South African nuclear weapons program and brings tribute to the ingenuity and dedication of all those involved.

About the Author

Richardt Van Der Walt earned his doctorate of science (physics) from the University of Potchefstroom and served as the general manager of the Atomic Energy Corporation.
Hannes Steyn, a physicist trained at the University of Potchefstroom, was a senior general manager of Research and Development at Armscor, the Armaments Corporation of South Africa.
Jan Van Loggerenberg earned his pilot?s qualification at the Central Flying School at Dunnottar and was Chief of the South African Air Force and Chief of Staff Operations.