November 24, 2004 :: News
In a recent letter to the Kodiak Mirror newspaper, Missile Defense Agency spokesman Rick Lehner corrected a previous opinion piece which had asserted that the MDA is “preparing to launch lasers and interceptors into earth orbit.” Lehner pointed out that no such space-based systems are even contemplated and that the space-based laser research office “was shut down more than three years ago.” On November 18, Lehner confirmed as well the very limited character and capability of the systems which are being deployed this year. Lehner said quite simply that “this missile defense system being deployed is not a threat to either the Russian or the Chinese strategic deterrent force.”
Lehner accurately presents official policy, but this points to the problem with current policy. It is true that the United States is not seeking to deploy a strategic defense, and that it is specifically avoiding the space-based systems useful to that end. The arms controllers who vehemently opposed Reagan’s Strategic Defense Initiative are therefore wrong to attack the system and policy as such. The systems currently under development would still preserve a policy of mutually assured destruction, permitting enemy missiles to have a “free ride” to our territory and citizens.
The beginning of a limited deployment this year in Alaska and California is an important first step, but it is essential that such deployment be followed up with more ambitious and capable systems. Specifically, the proper direction for future missile defense should be toward space-based interceptors designed to counter the strategic threat posed by Russia and China.
» Nov. 18: Lehner: BMD systems no threat to Russian or Chinese nuclear arsenal
» Nov. 17: Lehner: Space-based lasers, interceptors not planned or even contemplated
» More stories on: Policy
