My understanding was that this was 1930s-40s tech correct? In that case the science is already there, proved evident by the Manhatten Project and all the steps in the understanding of nuclear science prior to that! Now the Manhattan project was a collection of some of the best minds with substantial funding, Sophie is THE greatest nuclear scientist with the funding of an entire nation, albeit a scorched one. 

I'm not arguing for nukes, as it's obvious that that would ruin the game, what I'm going for is simply something kind of original to set my nation apart. Obviously I defer to the GM entirely, and I'm not attacking you personally, I just think nuclear works best. Thank you for your suggestions in case it gets denied though!