An independent panel recently provided a boost to a coolly received Pentagon initiative that would convert some long-range, submarine-launched ballistic missiles to deliver conventional warheads instead of nuclear ones.
The United States is exploring concepts for basing missile interceptors in space with the objective of beginning deployment of three to five armed satellites for testing purposes as early as 2008, according to recent Pentagon briefings and statements.
Wade Boese, research director at the Arms Control Association, warns that if the U.S. plans to pre-emptively use a nuclear weapon, "it's embarking on a path that would undercut U.S. leadership in the world, undermine more than 30 years of efforts to stem the spread of nuclear weapons and break a nearly 60-year-old taboo against their use."
A congressionally mandated commission warned that U.S. space assets are vulnerable and recommended that Washington develop additional space capabilities for deterrence and defense?possibly including space-based weapons.