Eli5 what’s the difference between a “tactical” nuke, and just an ordinary nuke?

Question

Eli5 what’s the difference between a “tactical” nuke, and just an ordinary nuke?

In: 2

Answer 1

A “normal” nuke is meant to accomplish a strategic objective – taking out a major target, like a military complex or an entire city. Indiscriminate destruction.

Tactical nukes are small scale, intended to limit the amount of destruction but are capable of more destruction than conventional weapons.

For example, a tactical nuke might target a convoy or formation of vehicles. An artillery or missile strike might be too inaccurate to deal any real damage – maybe knock out a handful of tanks. A tactical nuke is going to wipe the whole unit.