SDI and US security
After reviewing the arguments of supporters and opponents to the strategic defense initiative (SDI), the authors examine the feasibility and potential impact of SDI on US national security and US-Soviet relations. Experts agree that the goal of perfect defense is unobtainable because the Soviets will respond with counter measures that will preclude cost-effectiveness and survivability. Partial defenses to limit destruction would have to continue to rely on deterrence by the threat of second-strike nuclear retaliation, a course which must weigh the political and military costs against the benefits the political appeal of perfect defense provides in gaining public support for a high defense budget and encouraging Soviet arms control negotiations. The risks as the Soviets develop a ballistic missile defense come from the necessary cooperation between the superpowers in developing a defense-based world and the possibility that relations will worsen.
- Research Organization:
- Harvard Univ., Cambridge, MA
- OSTI ID:
- 5286143
- Journal Information:
- Daedalus (Boston); (United States), Journal Name: Daedalus (Boston); (United States) Vol. 2; ISSN DAEDA
- Country of Publication:
- United States
- Language:
- English
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