In this scenario during the early 1980s DARPA makes a breakthrough in energy manipulation technology. They invent a method of creating a stable force field around large objects. The Force Field is strong enough to shrug off a 10 Megaton Nuke and can be engaged for a maximum of 20 minutes. To power the Forcefield A miniature Nuclear Generator was developed. The Generator had a service life of 5 years and was Thorium based. After field testing the Force Field upgrades were added to US Navy Aircraft Carriers, Battleships, Cruisers, Destroyers, Amphib Ships and replenishment ships. Military Bases also received the Shield Generators. Submarines did not get the shields because of space concerns and the fact that engaging the shield gave away the boats location. And ground vehicles did not receive the shields due to their small size. Aircraft did not get the shield because of interference with flight characteristics.
The Russians don't learn about the shields until 1987. At which point they attempt to steal plans for the shield but get caught in counter espionage. NATO counties heard rumors about the shield but don't believe them until eyewitness see a antiship missile hit the Battleship Wisconsin in the Persian Gulf in 1988. Video footage of the event spreads Worldwide at that point. How does warfare change in general with shield tech being a thing now? Which other countries successfully make their own Force Field tech and in what timeframe?
The Russians don't learn about the shields until 1987. At which point they attempt to steal plans for the shield but get caught in counter espionage. NATO counties heard rumors about the shield but don't believe them until eyewitness see a antiship missile hit the Battleship Wisconsin in the Persian Gulf in 1988. Video footage of the event spreads Worldwide at that point. How does warfare change in general with shield tech being a thing now? Which other countries successfully make their own Force Field tech and in what timeframe?