What happens when a nuclear threat becomes real—and who responds first?

In this episode of NucleCast, host Adam Lowther speaks with retired Navy Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) officer Steve Andros about nuclear incident response, interagency coordination, and the growing risks of proliferation and terrorism. From the role of local responders to specialized capabilities like the Nuclear Emergency Support Team (NEST), the discussion highlights how the U.S. prepares for and deters nuclear threats.

The conversation also explores how deterrence extends beyond traditional strategy to include denial, disruption, and threat-based approaches, while separating Hollywood myths from the realities of nuclear security operations.

Steve Andros serves as Policy Advisor and Exercise Planner for the Office of Nuclear Incident Response, supporting the integrated use of U.S. capabilities and the development of national and interagency nuclear response policy. He previously served nearly 30 years as a U.S. Navy EOD officer, including assignments supporting DOE nuclear incident response policy and counter–WMD efforts.

He holds advanced degrees from Johns Hopkins SAIS and the U.S. Army War College, with a background spanning operational, strategic, and interagency nuclear security missions.

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