ABSTRACT
This chapter outlines the elements of ballistic missile defense and provides an overview of both US and Soviet ballistic missile defense programs. It also discusses certain political and economic issues associated with strategic defense budgets, and outlines possible Soviet responses to US efforts to develop and deploy sophisticated ballistic missile defenses. Systems analysis and battle management programs involve development of technologies for battle management and command, control and communications. Strategic Defense Initiative (SDI) support programs include the development of technologies in four key areas: survivability of elements of the defense system; lethality of candidate weapons and vulnerability of hardened targets; the development of space power systems; and the development of space logistic support. The Soviet Union has also initiated substantial research program into advanced ballistic missile defense technologies. Finally, the chapter explores the implications of US and Soviet Strategic Defense Initiative programs for crisis and arms race stability.
