February 27, 2008 :: Analysis
Ambassador Henry F. Cooper and Paul M. Weyrich write today explaining the significance for missile defense of the February 20 shoot-down of a satellite using sea-based missile defense systems. Writing for the National Ledger, they observe that "any ballistic missile defense (BMD) system that can shoot down long-range Intercontinental Ballistic Missiles (ICBMs) also has the potential to shoot down satellites in low-earth-orbit (LEO)—such satellites travel slightly faster than ICBMs and move in similar altitudes above the earth...which leads one to ponder why sea-based defenses have not been empowered to intercept such long-range ballistic missiles."
Expanding further, the authors point out that sea-based missile defense assets are inherently mobile and can therefore minimize the effects of dangerous fall-out. While the two credit President Bush for withdrawing from the ABM treaty and laying the legal framework for the navy to conduct its interception, they caution that further steps must be taken to ensure the navy can intercept more than just short range missiles. They conclude that the modest spending on new software to equip the ships with the capability to shoot down the satellite is not only justified, but should be dramatically expanded. (Article)
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