Future SDI (Strategic Defense Initiative) decision making. Study project

Technical Report · Tue Mar 29 04:00:00 EST 1988

OSTI ID:7128488

Holman, B W

Nearly five years have lapsed since President Reagan made his now famous speech launching his Strategic Defense Initiative. Yet, polarized debate continues over the program's feasibility, desirability, affordability, goals, and direction. Some claim the program's goals have changed over time, and that today the primary goal is for an enhanced deterrence rather than providing a population defense as originally envisioned. Although the Congress has provided continuing and expanded funding for SDI, a consensus does not exist between the Congress and the Administration over the program's direction and goals. Some concerns exist within the Congress that the Administration is rushing too quickly to reach a decision on initial system development. Others would like to see initial development of a more limited defensive capability than that envisioned by the SDI program. This paper examines the evolution of SDI from a policy standpoint and addresses a series of questions that taken together may suggest parameters for future decision making.

• Research Organization: Army War Coll., Carlisle Barracks, PA (USA)
• OSTI ID: 7128488
• Report Number(s): AD-A-192794/6/XAB
• Country of Publication: United States
• Language: English

Related Subjects

350000* -- Arms Control-- (1987-)
98 NUCLEAR DISARMAMENT, SAFEGUARDS, AND PHYSICAL PROTECTION
ARMS CONTROL
BALLISTIC MISSILE DEFENSE
DECISION MAKING
GOVERNMENT POLICIES
MILITARY STRATEGY
NATIONAL DEFENSE
PUBLIC OPINION