U.S. Abstracts:

US Theater Missile Defense: A Deterrence and Defensive Force

Donald G. Gross

Theater missile defense addresses the escalating proliferation of ballistic and cruise missiles.  As such, TMD is a deterrent and defensive force that significantly contributes to both regional stability through assurance and security through defense to counter  theater missile threats.  This paper identifies three reasons for the need for TMD:  1.) the proliferation of ballistic missiles; 2.) the arming of ballistic missiles with WMD; and 3.) nonproliferation treaty failures.  The US Joint TMD program is described as a defensive response designed to protect US forces.  It is an improved version of the Patriot systems used during the Gulf War and is actually comprised of several systems from the Army, Navy and Air Force. The paper concludes that a mutual recognition of the missile proliferation/missile defense stalemate is a necessary first step toward real stability and security.

Lieutenant Colonel Daniel Kirby is a student at the US Army War College.

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